Richard "Rick" Leigh Stribling

Richard Leigh "Rick" Stribling, born October 16, 1943, in Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2023, in Dothan, Alabama. Rick will be remembered as a faith-filled, intelligent, and loving man who devoted his life to the service of his country, his family, and his community.

Rick was the beloved son of the late Stephen Charles Stribling and Gladys Everal Robinson. He was also predeceased by his stepfathers, Charles Otto Rouse and Lee Roy Robinson. Rick was the cherished brother of Stephen (Buzz) Howard Stribling and Charles Alan Rouse, and the proud father of daughters Stacey Kay Hensley and Regina Stribling. He was a loving stepfather and step-grandfather to Betty's daughter, Robin Huggins, and grandchildren, Sierra Kilpatrick, and Joshua Gross. He was the adored grandfather of Chase and Logan Hensley. Rick was predeceased by his wonderful wife, Betty JoAnn Stribling, and his dear daughter, Roxanna Leigh Stribling.

In October 2008, Rick met the love of his life, Betty. They were united in marriage on February 14, 2009. Their shared faith in Jesus was the cornerstone of their relationship. Together, they founded the International Assistance Group (IAG), a non-profit organization dedicated to caring for Karen Refugee children from Burma living in two different Refugee Camps along the Thai/Burma Border. Betty's compassion and dedication to this cause were a source of inspiration for Rick.

After graduating high school, Rick enlisted in the Air Force in August 1962. He went through basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, TX, and retired at McConnell Air Force Base, KS. He served in various capacities, including Fire Protection, Munitions during the Vietnam War, and later in Accounting and Finance. He also volunteered as a Recruiter before returning to Accounting and Finance, where he served as the NCOIC of Accounting and Finance and Chief of Military Pay for the entire base until his retirement in 1984. Despite his demanding military career, Rick managed to attend college at night, earning over three years of college credits.

Following his military retirement, Rick attended Oklahoma Real Estate Broker School, earning a Broker License. He then worked as General Manager for Hi-Point Estates Luxury Condominiums in Grove, Oklahoma. He retired from real estate and moved to Dothan, AL, in October 2006, to enjoy the warm weather and close proximity to the beach.

Rick's faith was central to his life. He began attending Harvest Church in Dothan in October 2006. He eagerly participated in Discipleship classes and served as a small group leader. In addition, Rick and his wife were leaders of the Harvest Visitation Team, known as the Honey Team, and members of the Missions Committee.

Rick's life can be best summed up by the famous quote from Albert Einstein, "Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile." His dedication to his country, his loved ones, and his community was a testament to his faith and his belief in service above self. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched with his kindness, generosity, and love.

Richard Leigh "Rick" Stribling will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His memory will forever be a beacon of faith, love, and service to others.

A celebration of Rick's life will be held 1 pm Thursday August 24, 2023, in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ralph Sigler officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 12:30 pm until the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the International Assistance Group at www.iagoutreach.com.