Richard Erskin, 84, passed away Monday, December 26, 2022, in Carthage, Missouri. Richard was born March 5, 1938, in Carthage to Roy Erskin and Ruth (Wilbur) Erskin. He worked for 44 years at Dyno Nobel, Inc., formerly known as Hercules Powder Company. Richard was a 32nd Degree Mason, Joplin Lodge. He attended Joplin Heights Baptist Church and volunteered as the Prayer Coordinator. Richard also enjoyed woodworking very much.
Richard then married his second wife, Dorothy Smith. He and Dorothy were together for 42 years when she preceded him in death on August 24, 2022. Richard married his first wife, Carolyn (Rowe) Smith, in 1957 in Carthage; she survives. To this union three children were born.
Richard is survived by his first wife, Carolyn Rowe; one son, Ricky Erskin of Wichita, Kansas; one daughter, Sherry Smith (Jimmy) of Carthage, Missouri; one son-in-law, Carl Henderson; one brother, Leonard Erskin of Monett, Missouri; one sister, Judy Erskin of Claremore, Oklahoma; ten grandchildren, Ashley (Jacob), Christopher, Austin, Jessika, Jeffery (Tena), Justin (Megan), Chelsey (Lauren), Nicholas, Tyler, and Brayden (Autumn); and twenty-three great grandchildren.
Richard is preceded in death by his second wife, Dorothy Smith; one daughter, Debra Henderson; his parents, Roy and Ruth Erskin; five brothers, Virgil, Rolland, Roy, Edward, and Jimmy; and one sister, Wanda Martin.
A graveside service will be held 11:00 am Thursday, December 29, 2022, at Park Cemetery in Carthage. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Ulmer Funeral Home prior to the service.
Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
