Richard Allen McElwee, 59, of Salem, Virginia passed away Saturday, November 28, 2020 at Lewis-Gale Medical Center, Salem, Virginia.
He was born April 9, 1961 in Hot Springs, Virginia, the son of Rachel Marie Howdyshell McElwee and the late Button Guinnett “BG” McElwee, Jr.
Mr. McElwee was the Athletic Director at Glenvar High School.
He was a loving son and father. He enjoyed all sports, playing on the football, basketball and baseball teams in high school; and was nominated to the Bath County High School Hall of Fame. He was the former basketball and baseball coach for Bath County High School, basketball coach for Auburn High School, girls basketball coach for Eastern Mennonite University, and the basketball coach for Glenvar High School. He was a member of Virginia Chapel United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his mother, Rachel McElwee of Hot Springs, Virginia; two children; Kelly Altizer & husband Damin of Crozet, Virginia and Brittany McElwee & husband Michael Duff of Charlottesville, Virginia; two grandchildren, Kate Hays Altizer and Christopher Hays Altizer both of Crozet, Virginia; a sister, Christine McElwee of Roanoke, Virginia; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; special friends Jamie Soltis and Mike Blankenship both of Salem; many faculty, students and friends.
A memorial service will be held 2:30 p.m., Sunday, April 18, 2021 at McLaughlin & Young Funeral Home with Pastor Greg Irby officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Doris Via Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 174, Hot Springs, Virginia 24445 or or in honor of his granddaughter, Kate Altizer, The Children’s Assistive Technology Services (CATS) P.O. Box 121, Union Hall, Virginia 24176.
Kelly & Family~
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your Father, praying for you today and in the days ahead, I share in your sadness.
Kim @ Metro Insurance Services
Christiansburg, Va
I had know Richard for 40 years, life had taken us in different directions. From American Legion baseball to softball we played together for many yrs. those times will never be forgotten. We shared many talks riding to and from those tournaments. I’m sure his family in the Salem area will miss him!
Most of all I want to Bless Rachel and his family at home in Bath County during this difficult time.
Rachel,Christie , and Family, My sincere prayers and condolences . I know you will miss him, but just remember the good times. Remember your love for him every day,especially the love and help you gave to him during his illness.
Wanda Wehrend
Salem, Va
Rachel, I just heard about Richard’s passing and am sending prayers for you and your family.
Sue Campbell
Buffalo, NY
Rachel,
I just heard about Richard’s passing and am sending prayers for you and your family. May God bring you comfort during this time of grieving.
Sue Campbell
Buffalo, NY
Rachel, we are saddened for your loss and sorry we couldn’t attend the memorial service.