Richard James Houchens departed this life on Saturday, October 6, 2012. He was born July 19, 1949 to the late James E. Houchens and Bertha Jackson Houchens. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Lee Houchens and a sister, Bertha Virginia Shelton.

He was educated in Louisa County Public Schools. In his early childhood years, he was baptized and later rededicated his walk with Christ and was baptized at True Apostolic Church in the name of Jesus on November 19, 1978. Several places of employment were Classic Pools by Dike, Jo Pa Pools, North Anna Power Plant, Douglas Aquatics Inc., Charlottesville Aquatics Inc., D & S Pools and Turner Pools and Spa. After learning the trade for many years, in 1996, he started his own company and named it R & A Swimming Pools. Richard's characteristics show that he had a kind heart, a very humble spirit and great devotion in helping the community.

He leaves to cherish his memories, a loving devoted wife, Alice Houchens; one son, Andre Houchens (Cassie) of Mineral VA; three daughters, Resa Lewis (Jamerson Sr.) of Fredericksburg, VA, Cheryl Houchens and Cherita Houchens of Richmond, VA; three grandchildren, Devonte Scott, Nia Lewis and Jamerson Lewis Jr.; one sister Emma Jackson (Charles) of Mineral VA; two brothers, Sylvester Houchens of Montpelier, VA and Stewart Houchens of Mineral, VA; one sister-in-law, Carolyn Houchens; one brother-in-law, Raymond Shelton both of Mineral, VA; three aunts, Dorothy Henson, Hannah Hunter and Alberta Houchens all of Mineral, VA; three uncles, Eugene Houchens, Walter Hunter both of Mineral, VA and James Jackson of Lothian, MD; a very special cousin, Hannah Butler and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and special friends.

Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. Thursday, October 11, 2012 at Temple of Deliverance (HCOG), 5756 Zachary Taylor Highway, Mineral,VA with Elders Jason Lewis and Lynn W. Beanum, Jr., officiating. Interment will follow in the Houchens Family Cemetery.