Richard "Papa Rich" Eilers

Richard “Papa Rich” Eilers – 72
Of Valdosta passed away at his residence on Friday, July 30, 2021. He was born in Covington, Kentucky on May 24, 1949 to the Late Frank and Henrietta Eilers. He served his country in the United States Army and was awarded the Bronze Star Metal with Valor resulting from his courageous acts on the battle field during the Vietnam War. After his tour in Vietnam, Rich started his career with the United States Postal Service where he retired as Clerk Supervisor after 35 years. Rich’s passion was his family and serving in the food ministry. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include: His loving wife of 31 years Julie Eilers, Children: Freddie Thomason and wife Barbara of Orlando, Florida, J. L. Payne and wife Stephanie of Valdosta, Georgia and Tiffanie Lohr and husband Jeremie of Denver, Colorado. Grandchildren: Samuel, Marisa, Gracie, Dustin, Levi Eilers and wife April; numerous brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday August 3, 2021 in the Quitman Church of God. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, August 2, 2021 from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. A private interment service will be held in the Tallahassee National Cemetery on Wednesday. The family requests that in lieu of flowers contributions be made in Rich’s honor to the youth building fund at the Quitman Church of God. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com . The Eilers family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services, Valdosta.