Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Richard Avinger, beloved father, husband, grandfather and brother, passed away peacefully after battling chronic illness at age 63. He departed his earthly vessel January 7, 2020, in Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located in Hampton, Virginia.

Richard was born June 28, 1956, in Orangeburg County, South Carolina to Joe Avinger, Jr. and Beatrice Avinger, who both preceded him in death. Five brothers also preceded him in death: Irving Avinger, Joe West, Jr. James Avinger, Henry Lee (Laura) Avinger and Rommie Lee Avinger.

After graduating from Holly Hill Roberts High School in South Carolina, Richard enlisted in the United States Army in 1978. Richard served his country honorably, earning several commendations, including a transportation achievement award for logging more than 200,000 miles. After 20 years of service, Richard retired from the Army in April 1998 as a Staff Sergeant. After retirement, he worked at NASA Langley and Ft. Eustis in Newport News, Virginia until he became ill.

On June 9, 1990, Richard married the love of his life, Felecia Shelby Avinger. The two resided in Newport News until his death.

Richard was a devoted father to his daughter from a previous marriage, Torrisha Samara Wicks.

Richard leaves to cherish his fond memories his wife, Felecia; daughter, Torrisha; three grandchildren: Christopher Wicks, Jr. Jazmin Wicks, and Karlee Payne; two brothers: Ned (Barbara) Avinger and Sammie (Denina) Avinger; four sisters: Jeanette Avinger, Catherine (Ernest) White, Patricia (Alvin) Gaines and Lula Mae (Benjamin) Taste; three sisters-in-law, Lori Smith, Goldie West and Lena Avinger; uncle, Thomas West; son-in-law, Christopher Wicks; and a host of nieces and nephews, extended relatives and friends, including best friends Freddy White and Arthur (Lynette) Harris; and caregivers, Lorraine Johnson (who preceded him in death), Brenda Wonson and Sallie Basket. All of these he loved and touched deeply.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, January 18, 2020 at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.