Richard Curtis Gillenwater

Richard C. Gillenwater – Gate City, VA

Richard Curtis Gillenwater, 82, of Gate City, Virginia, passed away peacefully on October 19th, 2025, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born on June 2nd, 1943, in Kingsport, Tennessee, to Robert Cossie Gillenwater and Anne May McConnell, Richard grew up in Gate City. He graduated from Gate City High School in 1961 and began his college studies at Emory & Henry before transferring to Virginia Tech, where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering in 1966. Richard built a lifelong career in engineering, earning his Professional Engineer license. He proudly served his community through his work at Holston Defense and Eastman Chemical Company for over 30 years.

Richard was blessed to share his life with two wonderful partners. He was first married to Janice Dezarn Gillenwater, with whom he shared 57 years of love and memories until her passing in 2021. Later, he found companionship again with his wife Lois Hewa, who remained faithfully by his side and continues to cherish the life they built together.

Those who knew Richard will remember him as an honorable man. He was known for his devotion to the Lord and his family, his kindness, humility, sense of humor, and joy for life. He loved making new friends, fishing, bird hunting, and cheering on the Hokies. In his latter years, he thoroughly enjoyed golf, playing the guitar, cabins trips up Stoney Creek with his many cousins and dear friends, gardening, dancing, sitting on his porch, and spending time with his beloved Ms. Lois. He took great pride in his daughter and granddaughters, his community, and his home.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife Janice Dezarn Gillenwater; his daughter, Michelle Lynn Gillenwater; his sister, Myralin “Nickie” Trayer (David); his parents; and his two brothers, who passed at birth.

Richard is survived by his wife Lois Hewa; his daughter, Kristy Nichols (Chip); his granddaughters, Ansley and Abigail Nichols; his sister, June Mott (Dennis); and numerous nieces and nephews. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and kindness.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 24th, at Midway Memorial Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM and the service beginning at 2:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, Richard and the family request that donations be made to Midway Memorial Methodist Church. These can be sent to 5532 Veterans Memorial Highway, Gate City, VA or contributed at his Celebration of Life.

An online guest register is available for the Gillenwater family at www.gatecityfunerals.com.

Gate City Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Richard C. Gillenwater.