Richard Lynn “Rick” Given, 86, of Charleston, West Virginia, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at his home.

Rick was a proud United States Marine who served his country, including the distinguished honor of serving in the John F. Kennedy Honor Guard and as a member of the elite Presidential Guard and Drill Team. His commitment to service did not end with his military career—it became the foundation of a life devoted to others.

Rick worked as a professional truck driver along with a number of other professional endeavors, but his true life’s work was found in his unwavering dedication to veterans and their families. He was active in community and veteran affairs for many years, serving as a past Commandant of the Marine Corps League of South Charleston, West Virginia, and as the Governor’s Representative on the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

Rick devoted countless hours to supporting Gold Star families and was designated as a Gold Star Families of West Virginia Advocate. He worked closely with Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams, serving as an aide de camp and trusted partner in a mission that brought healing, recognition, and dignity to families who had lost loved ones in military service.

Through this work, Rick helped establish and support Gold Star Family Memorial Monuments in West Virginia and across the country. He also played a key role in establishing the Honor Guard at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery, ensuring that those who served our country would be honored with the respect and dignity they deserved. Rick also served as a Board Member of the Hershel “Woody” Williams Medal of Honor Foundation, continuing his commitment to preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice.

Over the years, Rick received countless awards and recognitions for his service and dedication, though those who knew him understood that he never sought recognition—only the opportunity to serve.

Those who knew Rick understood that his service was rooted in a deep sense of duty, compassion, and respect. He believed in showing up for people—especially in their hardest moments—and quietly worked to make things better for others.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Wilson Given and Wanda Mae Cleek Given; his special grandmother, “Mom” Delcie Cleek; his Uncle Bill Cleek; and his stepdaughters, Kelli Canfield Gilfilen and Kimberly Dawn Canfield.

He is survived by his daughters, Krista Leah Lynn Given (Vallandingham) and Mary Lynn Elizabeth Given; his grandson, Ethan (Danielle) Lawrence and their two children; and his former wife and friend, Sharon Given, along with extended family, friends, and a community of veterans and families whose lives were touched by his kindness and dedication.

A graveside service will be held 2:00pm, Friday, April 17, 2026, at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery in Dunbar.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to support veterans and Gold Star families, or to the CAMC Foundation in honor of his daughter Krista’s current battle with breast cancer.