Richard Douglas Greene, affectionately known as “Dickie,” peacefully passed away in his sleep on February 10, 2026. He was 92 years old. Born on August 22, 1933, in Elm City, North Carolina, he was the son of William T. Greene and Della Greene.
After being drafted into the Army in 1957, Greene served with honor in the 6th Infantry in Berlin, Germany. During his military career, he earned the Expert Infantry Badge and served in the Honor Guard. Following his service, he returned to the United States in 1959, where he married his beloved wife, Karin Greene, and settled in Newport News, Virginia.
A Dedicated Career and Community Leader
Greene embarked on a 35-year career at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. He initially worked as a pipefitter before transitioning to roles as a timekeeper, where he managed payroll, and later in plot and print. After retiring from the shipyard, he continued to contribute to the industry as an independent inspection contractor for SGS.
As a long-time member of Liberty Baptist Church, Greene was actively involved in various committees, including the Lord’s Supper Committee and groundskeeping, and he proudly served as an usher. His commitment to community service extended beyond his church as he endeared himself to family and friends through acts of kindness and support.
A Life Rich in Love and Legacy
Greene is remembered as a devoted husband and a doting father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughter and caregiver, Shirley Widlacki, her husband Timothy, and their three children, along with his other daughters, Winnie Price and Montress Widlacki. His family also includes several great-grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply, especially his two-year-old great-granddaughter, Abigail Warren.
Greene’s passion extended into hobbies such as farming, gardening, hunting, and barbecuing. He was particularly known for his exceptional peanut brittle, earning him the affectionate title of “the Brittle Man.” His storytelling ability brought joy and inspiration, with many captivated by tales from his childhood on a sharecropper’s farm during the Great Depression.
A strong believer, Greene shared his faith with sincerity and enthusiasm. He was known as a “prayer warrior” who inspired many through his spiritual journey. His life was characterized by selflessness and a commitment to serving others, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Greene was preceded in death by his wife, Karin Greene, and his sister, Martha Collins. He is also survived by his sisters, Beth Boykin, Nancy Pridgen, Montress Greene, and Cindy Harris, along with numerous friends who regarded him as family.
A Celebration of Life will take place on February 20, 2026, at W J Smith & Sons Funeral Home, with visitation starting at 11:30 a.m. The service is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., followed by interment at Peninsula Memorial Park at 15:00, which will include a military tribute.
In honor of Richard Douglas Greene’s life, donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. His legacy of love, faith, and community service will be profoundly missed.