Richard J. Lenaghen Sr.

Richard J. Lenaghen Sr.

Richard J. Lenaghen Sr, 85 of Palmer, Alaska passed away on July 16, 2020 after a brief, but hard fought, battle with lung cancer. He died at home with family by his side.

Richard was born in August 1934 to John and Adah Jacobs Lenaghen of Rome, New York.

In 1955 Richard married his childhood sweetheart, Shirley Graves. They were married for 40 years and had 9 children. The marriage ended in divorce and Richard moved to Alaska in 1994 where he met his soulmate, Greta Sheeley. Richard and Greta married in July 1997.

Richard loved music and could play various instruments, with his specialty being the guitar. He played and sang at family gatherings, at local restaurants, and at home just for the pure love of it.

He appreciated the great beauty of Alaska and would often spend a day with Greta driving up the highway to view the spectacular sights the great land has to offer while being treated with sightings of various Alaskan wildlife along the way. These day trips would always culminate in a meal at an Alaskan lodge.

Richard had an unwavering faith in Jehovah God and loved sharing the message of comfort and hope for the future found in God’s word the Bible.

His sense of humor and booming laugh will be missed by all that had the honor of knowing him.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Greta; Children: Nora (Allan) Rivecca, Deborah Lenaghen, Richard Jr (Lori) Lenaghen, Kathy (Daniel) Calhaun, Mark (Teresa) Lenaghen, Sabrina Lenaghen; predeceased children; infant daughter, and sons Leonard and Kenneth. Siblings: Nora Wiedmire, John Lenaghen, Carlton Lenaghen, and predeceased siblings Kenneth, Leon, Loren, Leonard and Harold Lenaghen; Also: 15 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, one great-great granddaughter and many nieces and nephews.