Richard “Dick” McClellan Kazebee

Richard “Dick” McClellan Kazebee went to be with the Lord on October 21, 2024, at the age of 86. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Paulette Kaye Kazebee; his son Rick Kazebee and his wife, Kris; his daughter, Julie Reichle and her husband, Scott, along with their three daughters, Leah Vetter, Mara Reichle and Elise Reichle; and, his son David Kazebee and his wife, Jennifer, along with David’s sons, Kody Kazebee and Kyle Kazebee.

There are many ways to define Dick Kazebee. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, who was very proud of his children and grandchildren. He was a man of faith that had a deep commitment to God, continuing to attend church services until the end of his life. He was a sailor, proud to have honorably served his country for 29 years. And, finally, he was a motorcycle enthusiast. 

Dick was a curious and adventurous young man who grew up in Pennsylvania. He followed his brother Raymond into the Navy and served aboard several submarines, including some of the earliest nuclear subs. He was a patriot his entire life. To be home with his family, Dick moved to Lynchburg to begin a career with Babcock and Wilcox as a nuclear engineer.

Dick met Kaye in Newport News in 1963 at a place where his eldest son would coincidentally design a building four decades later. Dick was sporting a new convertible, and Kaye was finishing nursing school at the time. Both the car and the man caught her eye, and they began dating. They married shortly thereafter and started a family together. Dick had an undying love for Kaye, and she was always in his thoughts until the very end. They successfully relied upon one another for guidance throughout their lives.

His Uncle Leroy had a Harley Davidson shop, which was the start of Dick’s lifelong hobby. He took up riding at a young age and once rode across the country from the east coast to California to catch a Navy submarine where he was to be stationed. He was still riding his blue Harley Davidson Heritage this year.

He will be deeply missed, but we find comfort in knowing his legacy will endure through the lives he touched. 

Visitation will be at Calvary Baptist Church, 20957 Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg, VA on Monday, October 28, 2024, at noon. The memorial service will be held at the same location at 1:00 p.m. followed by a graveside service with military honors at Fort Hill Memorial Park, 5196 Fort Ave, Lynchburg, VA at 2:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flower, the family asks that donations be made to Calvary Baptist Church (cbclynchburg.com/giving).

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.