Obituary of Richard Franklin DeHart, Jr.

Richard Franklin DeHart, Jr., of Wytheville, VA, passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at the age of 70. He was born May 18, 1953, to the late Richard Franklin DeHart and Bobbie Jo Hutchinson Tolbert and grew up in Rocky Gap, VA. Rick was an avid outdoorsman who could often be found hunting and trout fishing, attending outdoor rendezvous, and camping. Rick was a collector and an accomplished photographer. He was a lifelong student of history and had an inquisitive mind. He enjoyed being a historical reenactor. He had a deep appreciation of music and was a highly skilled cook. He was a train enthusiast (model and full-size) and found inspiration in the photography of O. Winston Link. Rick studied engineering and drafting, and earned an associate’s degree from Wytheville Community College. Rick’s working life was rich with variety. He was a photographer and a waterbed salesman, and he worked for companies including Greear Studio and Coalfield Services. More recently and until his retirement, Rick worked in the family business, the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, as operations manager. Rick DeHart was a good friend to many. In recent years, the widowed Rick rediscovered romance with a new love, Brenda King of Bland. Their adventures took them far and wide, and they reveled in exploring Southwest Virginia and beyond. Rick loved cooking for her and sharing vivid and authentic experiences. He was devoted to her, and she was to him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Suzi Bonham DeHart and his brother, Scott Craig DeHart. Rick is survived by his love, Brenda King; his nephew, Christopher DeHart and wife Melanie of Rocky Gap, VA, along with their son Talon Boniface; his niece, Jessica DeHart and husband, James Prescott Lewis of Wytheville, VA, and their son Oscar Lewis. Extended family includes Patrick and Sheri Sutphin, and Eden and Brandon Speer. Rick also leaves behind his beloved canine companion, Sasha. A service to remember Rick will be held at 5:30 pm Wednesday, September 6th, at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the Open-Door Café in Wytheville. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com Grubb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.