Richard Harold Kinkoph, of Newport News, Virginia, passed away on August 13, 2026, at the age of 65, following a seven-year battle with stage 4 cancer, which he faced with remarkable strength and resilience.

Richard was born on September 23, 1960, in Cleveland, Ohio, and grew up in North Ridgeville, where he spent much of his life before moving to Virginia. Affectionately known as "Dick" during his childhood, Richard was active in sports from a young age. He was especially involved in wrestling and was a member of his high school wrestling team, winning the conference championship during his junior year. His love of sports continued throughout his life, and he remained a proud and lifelong Cleveland Browns fan and supporter of The Ohio State Buckeyes. He also shared his love of sports with his children, coaching their youth soccer teams.

Richard dedicated his career to serving his country. He proudly served in the United States Air Force before retiring from military service. He continued his career in Civil Service, supporting the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. His military career took him around the world, including assignments in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Poland, and Italy; and even spending a year living on a remote island in Alaska. A lifelong learner, he earned his Master's degree and was actively working toward his PhD at the time of his passing.

Outside of work, Richard enjoyed classic cars, motorcycles, and working on cars, including doing bodywork himself. He was skilled with his hands and enjoyed woodworking, always able to fix or build just about anything. He had a special place in his heart for animals and was always willing to take in an adopted cat in need of a home. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed traveling and sharing adventures with his extended family, including a recent dream trip to Europe that created memories they will treasure for years to come.

Richard will be remembered for his strength and resilience, his dedication to his family and country, his love of sports and adventure, his kindness, and the many things that made him uniquely himself, including his infectious, giggly laugh. Throughout his long battle with cancer, he showed remarkable courage and perseverance, while his wit and sense of humor remained as sharp as ever.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Susan; his children, Justin, Melissa (Robby) Glade, and Chris McKenna; his sister, Deborah (Leonard) Brodnick, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Patricia Kinkoph, and his in-laws, Nancy and Bill Barchard and Paul and Rita Fausz.

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Richard's life on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at W.J. Smith & Son Funeral Home located at 210 Harpersville Road, Newport News, Virginia 23601. A viewing will be held at 3:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4:00 p.m. Military honors will take place at the conclusion of the service. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, or the American Humane Society in honor of Richard, in lieu of flowers.

Richard leaves behind a lifetime of stories, adventures, laughter, and memories that will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.