Richard Joseph Vellines

Richard Joseph Vellines, 85, passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024 in Spartanburg, SC. He was born on April 21, 1939, in Norfolk VA, to the late Richard Joseph George and Rita Margaret Dempsey Vellines. He was married to the late Jane Vance Vellines for 62 years. 

Born and raised in Virginia Beach, Richard began his working life as a lifeguard. He graduated from Norfolk Catholic High School in 1957 and attained an associate's degree in Drafting & Design from the Norfolk Division of William and Mary College in 1959. Richard and Jane were married in 1960 in Winston-Salem, NC. They moved to Spartanburg, where Richard began his work as an Electrical Designer with Lockwood, Greene & Company, before working with Western Union. 

In his free time, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, especially attending their sporting events. An avid fan of the Atlanta Braves and camping enthusiast, Richard found joy in these simple pleasures. His strong faith led him to Southside Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday School and assisted with Wednesday night suppers. Richard served the Lord as a Deacon for over 40 years.

Richard is survived by his son, Steven Vellines of Tucker, GA; daughter, Donna Seay (Stacey) of Spartanburg, SC; beloved grandchildren, Samuel Vellines, Annabette Vellines, Regan Seay, and Connor Seay (Savannah); sister, Rose Marie Puncke (Rick) of Melbourne, FL; along with several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, May 9, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 2:45 PM at Southside Baptist Church. Funeral Services will follow at 3:00 PM in the church, conducted by Rev. Schuyler Peterson. Interment will immediately follow in Heritage Memorial Gardens.

In honor of Richard, memorial contributions may be made to Southside Baptist Church, https://www.southsidechurch.com/giving

The family extends a special thanks to the care staff at Restoration Senior Living for their extraordinary and loving care of their father.