Richard "Papa" Kent Cain

Richard Kent Cain, “Papa”, 78, passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in the arms of loved ones at his home in Reidsville, NC. A Graveside Memorial Service will be held May 4, 2024, at 2:30 PM at Roselawn Cemetery in Reidsville, NC with Pastor Randy Jessup and Pastor Ralph Clayton officiating.

Richard was born in Pilot Mount, Surry County, NC to Chester Arthur Cain and Cora Frances Cain on December 26, 1945. Married to his beautiful wife Edith for more than 60 years, they grew the most beautiful and loving family of 3 daughters, 7 grandkids, and 5 great-grandkids. Richard was employed as an overseer for Macfield/Unifi for over 30 years. 

Holding his family and friends dearly close, Richard spent his time traveling with Edith; vacationing with family and friends and supporting their grandkids for any and everything. When at home on a relaxed evening, Richard enjoyed watching Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune with his lovely wife. His love of playing music (especially George Jones), burning up the dance floor and shagging with Edith was truly a sight to see. While on the road, Richard had a set of golf clubs or a fishing pole alongside, sometimes both. Richard was always in search of the next birdie or bass.

With friends, RC's hobbies were shared and brought him even closer, building the deepest type of friendship. He possessed a natural swag and personality that lightened the room and endeared himself to everyone he met. With family, Papa's sportsmanship was idolized and became his benchmark of "if you're going to do something, be great at it." His kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids all excelled in sports over the years and along the way he was always visible with a cheerful smile and raised thumbs up (with plenty of Bug Juice and Juicy Fruit) for his proudest moments. As a friend, Richard was the hand on a shoulder, a big smile and a soft-spoken kindness that assured that you were in good company. As Papa, always encouraging, he consistently instilled being courteous, being kind and doing what’s right. He never missed the opportunity to affirm that he couldn’t be prouder of what you had become. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his devoted and loving wife of more than 60 years, Edith Cain, children; Trisha Parsons (Michael), Wendy Chambers (Tuck), Mechelle Purdy (Lee), grandchildren; Kent Parsons (Cristy), Cameron Parsons (Chrystal), Hayden Parsons, Kendall Hershman, Justin Purdy, Chloe Hershman, Maddox Hershman; Great grandchildren; Kobe, Miles, Weston, Abigail, and Jack Parsons; Brothers, Cleo and Bobby Joe Cain. In addition to his parents, Richard is preceded in death by his brothers, Cranford and Benny Cain and sister, Bonnie Faye Cain. The family would like to express sincere thanks to the staff of Ancora Compassionate Care for assisting him through his final journey.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ancora Compassionate Care, PO Box 281, Wentworth, NC 27375.