Richard Winn Florence

Richard Winn Florence, 70, went to be with the Lord on March 20, 2024 following a lengthy illness.   Known to family, friends, and co-workers as “Flo-Daddy”, Rick had a compassionate and loving demeanor. He was a friend to everyone; honest, dedicated, and a role model for others. Rick was a true servant, always willing and ready to help anyone in need. 

Richard loved the Lord and was blessed to share that passion during various mission trips.  He was a member of Lebanon Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon and Sunday School teacher. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life; reading his Bible daily, working in the yard, and watching old westerns on TV.  Since his illness, he couldn’t wait until Spring so he could sit on the front porch and wave to the neighbors, or visit with those who might walk by.

Richard Florence was a dedicated Law-Enforcement Officer for thirty-nine years. He began his service with the Colonial Heights Police Department in Colonial Heights, VA. After relocating in Russell County, he was Chief of the Lebanon Police Department, and became Major Florence while serving with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office.  He was also a Bailiff with the Russell County Courts.

Rick is preceded in death by his parents John William Florence, Sr. and Josephine McLaughlin Florence.  He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Joy Florence and daughter Jessica Florence; brothers, John William Florence, Jr. and wife Ardelle and Thomas S. Florence and wife Linda; and several nieces and nephews.  Rick had two very special friends, Kenny Bage and Keith Slaughter.  

Special “Thanks” is extended to the Russell County Combined Court, Lebanon Baptist Church, and the Russell County Sheriff's Office for their love, prayers, and continued support during Rick’s illness. The compassion and support from his various caregivers is also much appreciated.  

A Celebration of Life will be held at Lebanon Baptist Church on Monday, March 25, 2024 at 11 a.m. The Rev. Tom Edwards and Pastor Robert Gragg will officiate and burial will follow in Ketron Memorial Gardens. There will be no formal visitation.

Serving as pallbearers will be men and Deacons of Lebanon Baptist Church.

The Russell County Sheriff’s Office will serve as Honorary pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Lebanon Baptist Church building fund and the Virginia Sheriff’s Association.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family on our website at www.chfunerals.com or the funeral home Facebook page.  Combs-Hess Funeral Service, 291 Highway 71, Lebanon, Virginia 24266, 276-889-4444.  To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Richard Winn Florence, please visit our flower store.