04/08/2026
In Loving Memory
Of
Gilmore Richard Underwood Jr.
September 20, 1950 - February 21, 2026
Gilmore Richard Underwood Jr., known affectionately as Richard was a man whose heart and spirit touched everyone he met. Born on September 20, 1950, in Charlotteville, Virginia, he was son of Gilmore Richard Underwood Sr. and Thelma Watson Underwood. Richard grew up surrounded by family and instilled with values of love, loyalty, and kindness that shaped his life.
A proud graduate of Burley High School, Richard answered the call to serve his country, becoming a veteran of the United States Army. His time in the service reflected the courage, discipline, and steadfast character that would define him throughout his life. Following his military service, he dedicated many years to his work at Sperry Corporation, where his diligence, integrity, and commitment earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.
Richard's life was marked by his deep devotion to family. He is survived by his nieces Deborah Underwood-Eddins, Diane Underwood, and Donna Underwood; nephews Kerry Maurice Underwood (Kim) and Paul Herny Underwood; first cousins Dorita Merill; Eleanor Brown; Ann Carter; and Faustina Wilson; and numerous great and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Thelma Rushalean Underwood; his devoted second mother, Sarah "Muffy" Johnson-Hawkins; his niece Denise Underwood; a cousin Courtney Goodlowe; and his grandparents Louise Gilmore Watson and Howard Hunter Watson.
Those who knew Richard remember his warmth, generosity, and the joy he brought into every room. He had a special way of making people feel seen, whether through shared laughter, quiet conversations, or simple acts of kindness. He cherished his friends at the Downtown Post Office and City Hall and the countless kind people he met along the way, especially his kind friend Hope Banks, leaving lasting impressions that will not be forgotten.
Richard loved life's simple pleasures and took joy in the company of those around him. He carried a quiet strength and a gentle humor that brightened the lives of family, friends, and colleagues. He lived with integrity, gave generously, and approached every day with kindness.
A memorial service celebrating Richard's life will be held on April 10th, at 1:00 p.m., at Culpeper National Cemetery, 501 East Chandler Street, Culpeper, Va.
Richard's legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com