Richard “Rick” Mendez

Richard “Rick” Mendez, 74 of Bristol, VA formerly of Omar, WV, passed away on July 9th, 2025 at 11:40pm at Marietta Memorial Hospital in Marietta, OH surrounded by his wife, kids, and his sweet Cathryn. He was born to the late Lorenzo and Gertrude Mendez on November 29th, 1950.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his mother and father in law, Charles and Brenda Baisden; one brother in law. Charlie Baisden; one grandson, Kenny Plumley; childhood friend, David Spradling; two faithful companions, Chico and Sammy.

Rick enjoyed umpiring little league and high school baseball, riding around in his truck and four wheeling in the hills. Rick was a coal miner, he worked for WP Coal Company. He also held the title for running a mile in 4.57 minutes at Logan High. He loved watching gun smoke with his faithful brother, Lawrence, and being spoiled by his favorite doctor, Dr. Tammy Mendez Montgomery. He was a big fan of WV Mountaineers and the Cincinnati Reds.

Those left to cherish his memories are his wife of 42 years, Kimberly Mendez; one son, Richard Lee (Alicia Ashby) Mendez; two daughters, Ricci Rashael (Chuck Vickers) Mendez and Catherine Jenna’ (Bryson) Ellis; one step daughter, Keely (Joey) Gibson-Marcum; three brothers, Johnny (Debbie) Mendez, Lawrence (Mary) Mendez, and David Lee Mendez; 3 sisters, Mary Rose (Gary) Watson, Patty (Allen) Adkins, and Carol (Jeff) McGinnis; one sister in law, Stephanie (Gene) Bevins; six grandchildren, Jacob Wiley, Reed Dingess, Claire Dingess, Cathryn Vickers, Bryson Ellis II, and Zachary Ellis; two great grandchildren, Kacen Dingess and Baron Teo Vandamia-Dingess; host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Collins Funeral Home Chapel in Switzer, WV.

A second visitation will be held from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm Sunday, July 13, 2025 also at the chapel.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, July 13, 2025 at the chapel with Rev. Clifton Adkins officiating.

In honoring his wishes, he will be cremated following the services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Collins Funeral Home, Inc. of Switzer, WV.