Richard Alvin Herald, 86

Richard Alvin Herald, 86, of Hendersonville passed away Wednesday Jan. 22, 2014, at the Elizabeth House.

He was born in Imperial, Pa.. He served in the US Army Post WWII in Japan. After graduating from Penn State University in 1953 with a bachelor of science of agriculture degree he worked for HJ Heinz for 33 years as an agricultural manager. During his career at Heinz he lived in Plymouth, Ind.; Muscative, Iowa and Pennsville, N.J. Richard and his wife of 58 years, Bertha, retired and moved to Flat Rock 28 years ago.
In retirement, Richard worked for Habitat for Humanity for 22 years. In Spetember of 2011, he was awarded the Construction Volunteer of the Year for exceptional service and leadership. His lifelong interest in vegetable gardening came to fruition during retirement through his extensive garden. Never avoiding a job too large, Richard's garden produced a bounty shared with friends, neighbors and family. He will be remembered for not planting three tomato plants but sixty. He often shared his harvests with The Storehouse. His broad interest in birds focused on bluebirds. Through his efforts, he took pleasure in increasing the bluebird population in his neighborhood. He also shared his love of birds through the 200 plus birdhouses that he made in his wood shop. His memory will live on through these birdhouses.

Richard is survived by his wife Bertha, his four children Desiree Varga, Nancy Herald, Robert Herald and James Herald and his five grandchildren.

A private memorial was held for him in his rose garden.

Donations in memory of Richard Herald can be made to Habitat for Humanity, 1111 Keith Street, Hendersonville, the Storehouse, 627 7th Avenue East, Hendersonville and the Elizabeth House, 581 South Allen Road, Flat Rock

A special thank you to Dr.Pyles, Dr Hill, Dr. Reis, Dr. Donaldson, Dr. Yost and The Elizabeth House.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.