06/09/2026
Our hearts are heavy but we will keep up your good works
You will be missed
On June 5th, 2026, Richard Thomas Legard left this world to join his family, friends and pets who had left this world before him and prepared the most joyful reunion ever imaginable. I can’t say I am not a little jealous, but I know that one day we will all be together again and have that same joy.
Richard was born on February 6, 1953, in Pearisburg, VA to the late Robert Hope Legard and Edith Redmon Legard. He graduated from Augusta Military School and New River Community College. He retired from Volvo after more than 30 years, but continued to work at Norton Transport in Dublin, Va, where he did what he loved best. Be around people, solve problems and fix things and most of all drive big trucks. He was quick to make friends and always knew exactly who to call to ask a question or get what he needed to get the job done. You would never hear Richard say “That ain’t my job,” and would dive headfirst into any project or problem and see it through to the end.
Helping people was his priority. Whether someone needed kind words of encouragement, help with a problem or even financial help, Richard was there for anyone needing help. On February 1st, 1978, he joined the Giles Rescue and Lifesaving Squad where he spent over 48 years helping people. It was there that he met the love of his life, Sherry Stafford.
He and Sherry were married in 1985, and for over 40 years lived a fairy tale life of fixing up their old home, old cars, and old truck. His pride and joy was the 1973 Peterbilt that together they turned it into a rolling masterpiece. On YouTube, search for Richard Legard-Rolling CB interview from Big Rig Videos
Richard was predeceased by his parents, brother Robert Hope Legard and father-in-law, Joe Stafford. He is survived by his wife Sherry, sisters, Kaye Thurman of Georgia, Mary Waldrop (Hank) of Florida and Bill (Sara) of Florida. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Betsy Stafford, brother and sister-in-law, Rick and Robin Stafford, all of Pearisburg. He also leaves behind his very best friend, David and Sandy Akers of Narrows. He also leaves behind his beloved pets, Diesel, hunter, mike, Carol and Krissy who gave him so much joy and comfort.
Per Richard’s wishes, there will be no services, but a private family gathering at a later date.
He wanted to be remembered as a helper to all and to honor his memory, please consider a donation to the Giles Lifesaving and Rescue Squad in his memory.
My dear, this is not a goodbye, but a see you again one day
The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.
