David Joseph Richey

Mr. David J. Richey, age 89 passed away Sunday, January 5, 2025, four days before his 90th birthday, at his residence in Jerome, Idaho. He was born January 9, 1935 in Medford, Oregon, the son of Thomas Jefferson Richey and Frances Miriam Richey of Trail Prospect, Oregon.

Growing up, David helped his mom and dad run their store, The Wildwood Store, and cabins in Trail (Prospect), Oregon. He chopped wood to keep the store and cabins warm and collected pumice stones from a nearby rock quarry to sell to the tourists who ventured by.

He grew up hunting in the forests and mountains near Prospect and fishing in the Rogue River. He had an exceptional long-term memory, regaling friends and family with tales of his life adventures growing up.

After high school, he served in the United States Air Force Reserve from 1954-1958, then active military service from 1958-1961.

After his years of service in the military, he went to work for the US Department of Agriculture, in the US Forestry Division. He loved his job and spent most of his career in Oregon and Washington inspecting trees to be imported and exported. He retired after 30 years of service as a federal employee.

He is survived by his son, David Jay Richey (Karen); five grandchildren, Chris Richey, Candy Richey, Bobby Richey (Makaylla); Shawna Fultz (James Gergens); and Meloney Straub; step-grandchildren, Trucker Clark (Mandy); Thai Clark (Heather); and Hawker Newton (Katrina); 20 great grandchildren; and 4 great great grandchildren.

David was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Tommy Richey; sister, Aileen Block; brother-in-law, Frank Block; and son, Thomas Richey.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Eagle Point National Cemetery, 2763 Riley Rd, Eagle Point, Oregon, 97524.

We find comfort in knowing that Papa’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the stories he loved to tell, and the love he shared.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on David’s memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.