Richard Earl Gaston

Richard Earl Gaston, age 81, of Winchester, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Bluebird Retirement Community in London, Ohio. Richard, affectionately known to family and friends as "Rich," "Pete," and "Dick," was born on September 26, 1944, in Seaman, Ohio, to the late William and Margery (Lovett) Gaston. A proud veteran, Richard served five years in the Air National Guard with the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Sergeant. During his military service, he worked as a cook and spent one year stationed in Kunsan, South Korea. After completing his service, he worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation before beginning a long career with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Madison County, where he remained until his retirement. He and his beloved wife, Paula, shared a passion for collecting antiques, attending horse and craft shows, and searching for unique treasures together. In retirement, he also enjoyed working at the hardware store in Seaman, where he appreciated visiting with friends and neighbors. Richard was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved wife, Paula Sue (Crawford) Gaston, whom he married on December 17, 1966. He is survived by his three sons: Ted R. (Melissa) Gaston of London, Ohio; Ben A. (Jennifer) Gaston of London, Ohio; and Nic C. (Alicia) Gaston of Grandview Heights, Ohio. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren-Lindsay, Emily, Gracie, Emma, Hadley, Cole, Ella, Will, and Gabe. Richard will be remembered for his sharp sense of humor, quiet strength, devotion to his family, dedicated service to his country, and the kindness he shared with those who knew him. His memory will be cherished by all whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Richard's honor to the London Area Baseball Council (LABC), P.O. Box 23, London, Ohio 43140 Family and friends may pay their respects during visitation on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the Lewis-Sullivan Chapel of the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Homes, in Seaman. Funeral services will be held following the visitation on Saturday, July 11, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm, at the Lewis-Sullivan Chapel of the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Homes, in Seaman. Mike Davis will officiate the service. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Lewis-Sullivan Chapel of the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Homes. Please visit us at www.wallacethompsonfuneralhomes.com to leave words of comfort for the family in our online guestbook.

Tributes

Richard Earl Gaston

September 26, 1944 - July 7, 2026