LELAND — Robert “Bobby” Lee Richey, of Leland, North Carolina, passed away on October 4, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina. He was 75 years old.
Bob was born on March 21, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Robert and Helen Richey. He attended Indianapolis Arsenal Technical High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy as a Boilerman Technician and Fireman Apprentice. After his military service, Bob returned to school and earned an Associate Degree in Engineering Technology from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).
Bob dedicated his professional career to aviation, first working for the Indianapolis Airport Authority and later as an engineering technician with the Federal Aviation Administration, from which he retired in 2018.
While Bob was proud of his career and accomplishments, those who knew him will remember him most for the way he lived his life and the people he touched along the way. He was a natural storyteller who always seemed to have a good story to share. Caring, fun-loving, and genuinely interested in others, Bob had a special gift for making people feel welcome. He never met a stranger, and it was easy to become his friend.
Bob had many interests and hobbies that brought him joy. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed boating. He was a member of the fishing club at Compass Pointe, the Leland community he called home. He held a private pilot’s license, enjoyed collecting coins, and was an avid reader. Whether he was out on the water, pursuing one of his many interests, or simply visiting with friends and neighbors, Bob enjoyed life and the people who shared it with him.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen Richey, and his brother, John Arthur Richey.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 44 years, Rita Marie Richey; his son, Eric Matthew Richey and his wife, Stephanie, along with his three grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Mark Edward Richey; two nephews; and several cousins.
Bob leaves behind more than memories of the places he traveled and the things he enjoyed. He leaves behind the stories he told, the laughter he shared, and the many people who were fortunate enough to call him a husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle or friend. His kindness and easygoing nature made a lasting impression, and he will be deeply missed by all.
A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation – Leland Chapel, 525 Village Road, Leland, NC 28451.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Bob’s memory are encouraged to consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society.
