Richard Eugene McKenzie

Surrounded by his family, Richard Eugene McKenzie, 57, of Asheboro died Saturday morning, January 25, 2014, at Randolph Hospital following a short illness. Richard was born to the late R.W. and Juanita Cook McKenzie, February 1, 1956, in Asheboro. He was a 1974 graduate of Asheboro High School. He was employed as a salesman at Hoffman Auto in Asheboro. Richard is survived by his wife, Cathy Sykes McKenzie; daughter, Kady LaRose McKenzie; brother, Jerry, and his wife, Carole; sister, Reda Allred, and her husband, Joe; brother-in-law, David Sykes; nephew, Joshua Allred; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Pete and Mabel Sykes. A warm and loving human being, Richard never met a stranger. He genuinely liked everyone and was interested in them. His personality was larger than life, and the room lit up when he entered. Richard was a friend to all; he never forgot anyone he met and, having met Richard, no one ever forgot him. While some people enter a room and say here I am, Richard entered a room and said there you are! The family wishes to thank the doctors, and we especially wish to thank the ICU nurses for the tireless and loving efforts they bestowed on Richard and the comfort and care they gave to the family during our many days and nights with them. Our heartfelt appreciation goes to Richard's many friends that daily filled the ICU waiting room. In addition to his love for people, Richard was an advocate for and truly loved animals. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Randolph County SPCA, currently doing business from Southern Tails, 160 N. Park St., Asheboro, NC 27203. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 29, at Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held Thursday, 2:00 p.m., at Foster Street Wesleyan Church in Asheboro with Pastor Charles Moses presiding. And the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. Eccles. 12:7