Richard Anthony Grachan

Richard Anthony Grachan, of Forest, VA passed away on March 2, 2021 at 60 years old. He was born in Oak Lawn, Illinois in 1960, to Richard and Carol Grachan of Lady Lake, Florida, who survive him. Tony also leaves behind his three children, his partner Rhonda Tomlin and her three children. Tony and Rhonda have several grandchildren to whom they were doting grandparents.

Tony grew up one of six siblings. He was preceded in death by his beloved brothers, Steve and Jim. His sisters, Debi Lacy and Sharon Rolfes, remember him as a great friend and an excellent cook. Although he projected a tough exterior, he was a loyal and loving brother.

Tony worked at LSC Communications in Lynchburg for over 40 years, starting as a shift worker in cylinder-making at Meredith Burda and ending his career as supervisor over several departments through changes in ownership to RR Donnelley and LSC. Later in life, he was part of the ownership team at Apocalypse Ale Works in Forest.

Tony had three children, Melissa Harman, Jennifer Deddens and Steven Grachan, with his former wife, Laurie Blake, with whom he remained close friends until the end of his life. He taught his children to work hard and to be kind to others. He took them to every amusement park in the mid-Atlantic but also to every battlefield and historic site. He taught them how to fish, garden, and cook. He had a lifelong love of Western films, making his children watch every Western movie ever made (several times over). Although he had only a short time with his grandchildren, he shared with them the value of the small things in life, like a day at the beach, a fast go-cart ride and a stash of snack food.

Tony and his beloved partner, Rhonda, were together for over 20 years. They loved each other deeply and unconditionally. In the last months of Tony’s life, they spent every moment together, which was a gift that he treasured beyond words. Tony had close relationships with Rhonda’s three children, Eric, Justin and Shannon Tomlin. They remember him as a kind, thoughtful man who loved his family and a good Western. He believed in them and supported them in reaching their dreams, big and small, even if that meant jumping over bleachers to catch Shannon a fly ball. He was a devoted and loving grandfather to Justin and Shannon’s children.

Tony’s friends and family appreciated his generosity of spirit and love of life. He joined a band in his fifties, was a fierce card player, and would do anything for a friend in need. However, he most enjoyed quiet time outside: fishing, being at the beach with Rhonda and mornings spent watching the deer and birds in his backyard.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Saint Jude Children’s Hospital. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

 Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.