Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Richard Slate Obituary
October 10, 1954 - February 12, 2025
Richard Wesley Slate, Sr., age 70, of Hickory, NC, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.
Born in 1954 in High Point, NC, he was the son of the late Dorothy Stewart Slate and John William Slate, Jr.
Rick, as he was known by those closest to him, was a proud graduate of Wake Forest University, Class of 1976. Shortly after graduating, he moved to Hickory, where he started, owned, and operated his leather goods company, RWS Associates Inc., for over 40 years.
Rick enjoyed life as an accomplished pilot, boater, and golfer. He cherished his time with family, friends, and his beloved cat, Christmas.
He is survived by his loving wife, Cathy DeHart Slate, of the home; his son, Wesley Slate of Atlanta, GA; his brothers, John Slate and Robert Slate; and his sisters, Linda Gedney and Tricia Freeman.
A celebration of his life will be held at 3 p.m., on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Episcopal Church of the Ascension or to the John William Slate, M.D. Scholarship at Wake Forest University.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Slate
3 Entries
Vickie Slate Owens
September 14, 2025
I was very sorry to hear of Rick's passing. I so enjoyed seeing him at the Slate Reunions. Rick will be greatly missed by all who knew him. May God wrap his arms around Rick's family and give them peace, comfort and during this time of transition.
Donna Chamberlain
March 25, 2025
Kathy I´m so sorry to hear about Rick´s passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cheryl Waugh
March 15, 2025
Condolences to the family. I went to High Point Central with Rick. He was a good friend.
Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results
Make a Donation
in Richard Slate's name
Memorial Events
for Richard Slate
How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Richard Slate's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
