Obituary of Richard Lynn Britton

Richard “Rick” Lynn Britton, 71, of Fairmont, WV, a devout Christian and loving and proud husband, father, “Grampy”, and friend, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Thursday, December 26, 2024, after celebrating a wonderful Christmas with his family. Born on June 9, 1953, in Morgantown, WV, Rick was the son of the late James Franklin Britton, Sr. and Evelyn Knotts Britton, of Bruceton Mills, WV. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sally Ann Ringer Britton; two sons, Brian James Britton and wife, Jenna, of Brookdale, CA, and Travis Dale Britton and wife, Ambria, of Clarksburg, WV; two grandchildren, Ruby and River Britton; grand-dogs, Tater and Koda; a sister, Shara Sullivan and husband, Ron, of Newton Falls, OH; a sister-in-law, Donna Britton of Bruceton Mills, WV; a furry companion, Yankee; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James F. Britton, Jr. Rick grew up in Bruceton Mills, where he attended Bruceton High School before attending West Virginia University. He later pursued a career as an industrial mechanic, retiring after 43 years at Harrison Power Station, where he was known as a skilled and hard worker and earned the respect and admiration of his co-workers, many who became lifelong friends. A true joy of Rick’s came from the time he spent with his family. Married to his devoted wife, Sally, since 1975, the two built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. They loved their trips, bike rides, and their time together. They raised two sons, Brian and Travis, and he always let them know how loved and proud he was of them. Rick was also the proud “Grampy” of Ruby and River who will fondly remember his warm hugs and cuddles, his humor and silliness, and the many adventures he shared with them. Rick had a passion for lathe and woodworking, riding his Trike, hunting, fishing, camping, and singing. Some of his fondest memories were singing in weddings for friends and family and starring as the lead in the “Psalty” play with Lumberport Baptist Church. During this time, he came to accept Christ as his Lord and Savior and later served for years as a Deacon. He was a true man of God and loved reading his bible and sharing the word with others. Rick will be remembered as a man of kindness, wit, and endless knowledge. He touched the lives of everyone who knew him, and his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends. The family welcomes all who knew and loved him to join in honoring his memory at the Carl R. Spear Funeral Home in Brandonville-Bruceton Mills, WV, on Monday, December 30, from 4-9pm and Tuesday, December 31, from noon until the 1pm funeral service with Pastor Joe Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow at the Centenary Cemetery in Bruceton Mills. “Death had to take him sleeping. For if [he] had been awake, there would have been a fight.” - Thomas Marshall. Condolences may be sent to the family at spearfuneralhome.net.