Minister Richard Chester Townsend Jr. was born in Salisbury, N.C on October 13, 1956 to the late Margaret Moss. On October 11, 2016 he received his eternal life.

Richard was a graduate of North Rowan High school and attended North Carolina A & T State University where he pledged Nu Gamma Alpha Fraternity and met and fell in love with Alma, a lifelong friend he affectionately called “Bae-Bae.”

Throughout his life Richard worked in differing fields ranging from construction to healthcare until illness lead to early retirement.

Richard, since childhood, was a member of Providence AME Zion Church and joined Roger’s Chapel CME Church in 2016 after relocating to Fuquay-Varina, N.C. On November 29, 2014 he was granted the title minister and given the opportunity to exercise the God-given gifts in ministry under the tutelage of Reverend John Brewster and Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. Richard was a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star and served as Past Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge #682 of Asheville, N.C.

Richard was a charismatic, talkative country boy who loved to sing and tell stories. He loved liver pudding and German chocolate cake. He loved to watch old westerns and never missed Judge Judy! If you knew Richard, you knew he loved nice suits and Stacy Adams shoes! Richard loved life!

Richard was preceded in death by his loving mother, Margaret, and grandson, Markcus Jr. His memory will forever be cherished by his daughters, Shaunrick McGee (Markcus) and Chie Townsend; his brother, Cedric Townsend;, uncle, Henry Moss; aunts Mavis Moss and Mary Miller; three nieces, and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral service will be held on, Wednesday, October 19, 2016 at Providence A.M.E. Zion Church, Salisbury.  Visitation: 12:00 p.m. followed by funeral at 1:00 p.m.  Burial will be in the church cemetery. Rev. Keith Wooten, eulogist.