Oliver, Richard Adam

October 31, 1918 - January 4, 1989

He was the father of three children; Richard Adam Aliver, Jr. (Ritchie), Randolph Kirby Aliver (Randy), and Sheila Aliver Pittman. He has four grandchildren; Amy and Marla Aliver and Josh and Elizabeth Pittman.

Richard Adam Oliver was born October 31, 1918 in Boon Hill Township, Johnston County, NC. His parents were Eddie Floyd Oliver and Callie Edwards Oliver. He married Marcedes Kirby on September 20, 1941.

He served his country in the United States Army Air Force as an instrument specialist on a B-29 Bomber from April 1942 until November 1945. After his discharge from service he moved to the Stephen Wodard farm in the Glendale Community and began farming as a career.

In January 1950 he purchased the Benny Rose farm in the Hickory Cross community, where he lived until his death in January 1989.

Richard enjoyed farming. He grew tobacco, cotton, corn, wheat, and soybeans. He also raised hogs, beef cattle, and chickens for commercial hatching eggs. He was also an avid hunter and fisherman.

After a few years, he started plumbing with Carlton Atkinson in the winter months to add to the family income. In the late 60's he went into full time plumbing, operating Oliver's Plumbing Company. Later after Mr. Atkinson's death, he purchased Atkinson Heating and Plumbing Company and operated this business until declining health forced him into early retirement in 1977.

He was a member of Kenly Free Will Baptist Church where he served on the board of deacons and as Sunday School Superintendent, as well as on various committees. Richard loved the church and was faithful as long as his health permitted.