Richard Lee Newkirk

Rev. Richard Newkirk, a Gainesville resident since 1996, died August 20, 2011.

Born in Washington, D.C. in 1933, he received his BA from Hampden-Sydney College, MDiv. from Union Seminary in Virginia and MA from the Presbyterian School of Christian Education.

A Presbyterian pastor, he served for 22 years in Marlinton, WV, where was made Pastor Emeritus upon retirement. He previously served other churches in West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and North Carolina.

Mr. Newkirk's pastoral care and preaching touched many lives. He was a peacemaker and an unselfish source of encouragement for community, family and friends.

Preceding him in death were his father and mother, Meigs E. Newkirk and Marie Brall Newkirk and his brother, Meigs A. Newkirk. His survivors include his wife of 52 years, Paula Ball Newkirk, son, Mark Newkirk, daughter, Elizabeth Newkirk Parsons, four grandchildren, Tony and Becca Parsons, Anna and Eduard Newkirk, nieces Pat Newkirk, Jody Looper, and their families.

The memorial service will be at First Presbyterian Church of Gainesville on Sunday, August 28 at 2 p.m. with a reception following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the First Presbyterian Church World Mission Conference or music department.

Those wishing to send online condolences may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home, 355 Dawsonville Highway, S.W., Gainesville, Ga. 30501 is in charge of arrangements.