Richard Gordon Florence

Richard Gordon Florence was born April 10, 1933, in Atlanta, Georgia. He fell asleep on September 27, 2022, he was 89 years old. He moved from Atlanta to the Milwaukee area in 1969. He married Sharon C. Van Winkle on April 21, 1984. They were married for 38 happy years.

His surviving family members are his wife, Sharon Florence, children and spouses; Matthew and Deborah Lea, Rebekah Lea, Amy and Steve Carpenter, Susie and Ben Blomquist, Leslie and Craig Lewandowski, Melanie, Steven, and David Florence. Richard and Sharon shared 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. He affectionately labeled each group of grandkids, calling them the 1st Litter; Tanina, Leonna, Kira, Kandis, Aubry, the 2nd Litter; Linsy, Jonathan, Marcus, Jessica, Ryan, Ethan, Nicole, Megan, and Abby and the 3rd Litter; Aiden, Jocelynn, Mya, Julian, Ahdesa, Mason, Wyatt, and Westley.

Richard had a friendly demeanor and sense of humor. One brother referred to him as “Southern Comfort”.

He was a kind person, demonstrated by how he spent time with his grandchildren. He lovingly took care of his mother, Norma, until her passing. As a couple, Richard and Sharon liked to take driving trips to the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin Dells, and the lake house to visit his mother in Georgia.

FAITHFUL SERVICE

Richard was baptized on December 25, 1960. He was a dedicated servant of Jehovah for 62 years and had many spiritual opportunities. He enjoyed assisting at conventions and assemblies in the Security and Food Service departments. In addition, he worked on Kingdom Hall quick builds and the Janesville Assembly Hall. He loved to volunteer in whatever services Jehovah needed to be done.

KINGDOM HOPE

Richard believed the Bible’s promise that soon God’s Kingdom will rule on earth and we will enjoy life forever in paradise. At that time, the dead will be resurrected to life in perfect health. It was something that he looked forward to and this hope helped him serve God faithfully for decades.

“The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear my voice and come out.” John 5:28, 29

We are grateful for all the kindness and love shown to our family. Your messages, thoughts, and prayers are truly appreciated.

Private family services held October 2, 2022.