Richard Thomas LaPrade

April 14, 1945 — January 21, 2026

Richard Thomas LaPrade, age 80 of Boones Mill passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

Richard was born to the late Clarence Benjamin and Teeny Blair LaPrade of Rocky Mount. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Benny LaPrade (Pat); and brothers-in-law, Tommy Flora, Sherrard Flora and Donnie Flora.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Kay Flora LaPrade; daughter, Donna LaPrade Greer (Mark); grandson, Parker Thomas Greer; sister, Carolyn Blanchard (Bud); sisters-in-law, Mable Flora, Connie Flora and Marie Flora; brother-in-law, Barry Flora (Brenda); as well as many nieces and nephews.

Central to Richard’s life was his faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which he professed at age nine (9), on October 17, 1954, at a revival meeting; his life verse was II Corinthians 5:17. An active member of Franklin Heights Church, he loved the fellowship of his church family. He was a 1963 graduate of Franklin County High School and attended Ferrum College. He was an Eagle Scout and later served as a Scoutmaster for a few years. In the grocery business all his adult life, he began in retail with Kroger, moved to the wholesale side with Malone & Hyde, and ultimately owned his own convenience store, the Duck-In Market, for 27 years, until he retired in 2019. He cherished the years he served his community.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, February 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Franklin Heights Church, Rocky Mount Campus (110 Hilltop Dr, Rocky Mount) with Dr. Stan Parris officiating. Interment will follow at Mountain View Memorial Park. His family will receive friends at the church starting at 12 noon prior to the service.

The family wishes to thank all those at Caring Companions and Carilion Hospice for their loving care that allowed him to remain in his home, as well as the many family and friends who visited him, sent cards, and prayed for him. We are forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Franklin Heights Church.

Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.

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