Richard Terry Easterby, Sr.

Richard T. Easterby, Sr.It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Terry Easterby, Sr. on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 75. Richard was born on November 26, 1949 in Charleston, S.C., to the late Hugh and Joanne (Pridgen) Easterby.

Richard spent his career in the grocery industry, first serving the community for 27 years with Winn Dixie (James Island), and from then until his retirement in 2013 with Piggly Wiggly Carolina Company. Boss to many who grew up on James Island, a common joke was that it was a rite of passage as a James Islander to have worked for Mr. Easterby at one or both store brands. Known for lending a hand whenever asked, Richard was often found under someone's car to help repair, building something for someone in need, or simply duct-taping things to hold them together. There wasn’t much he couldn’t repair with duct-tape, coat hangers or a can of Great Stuff, and often called “MacGyver” for it. Always positive, and always a can-do attitude, even as illness and blindness set in over the years, Richard would still find joy in every day.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Joanne Easterby, and younger brother Wade Easterby.

Richard is survived by the love of his life, and wife of 54 years, Robin Bath Easterby; daughter Angela Easterby-Smith (Jonathan); son Richard Easterby Jr. (Karen); grandson Christian (Adrianna) and granddaughter Chandler; two sisters Dianne Rittiner (Robert) and Melody Lowe; and brother Stephen Easterby (Brenda). Beyond the immediate family, Richard is survived by many other family and friends that will truly miss him.

All are invited to a Celebration of Life on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 1pm-3pm at the James Island Yacht Club located at 734 Wampler Drive, James Island, SC 29412 followed by a family reception at their home on James Island from 3pm-6pm. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to the SPCA or PetHelpers.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation - James Island, 347 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412; 843-614-8494.