Richard "Rich" V. Porterfield

Verne Richard “Rich” Porterfield, of Wentzville, Missouri, passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the age of 87.

He was the beloved husband of the late Elnita V. Porterfield. Together, Rich and Elnita shared 63 beautiful years of marriage, a bond filled with love and devotion, before her passing in 2023. He was a devoted father to Tammy (Frank) Viviano, Tara (Steven) Hovis, Todd (Amy) Porterfield, Trisha (Alan) Grantham, and Tiffany (Jim) Nix. He was a loving grandfather to Angela, Nicholas, Zachary, Makenzie, Ashley, Alexis, Avery, Addison, Ashton, Macey, and Landon; treasured great-grandfather to Weston, Reese, and Grayson. He also leaves behind a sibling, Elizabeth Anne Watkins, brother-in-law, Jim (Linda) Farrar, nieces, nephews, and friends who will sadly miss him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Verne and Beatrice (nee Garrett) Porterfield; his beloved wife, Elnita; his brother, Robert Porterfield; and sister, Mary Doelling.

Rich dedicated much of his professional life to working for the Department of Defense as manager in the IT Department where he was known for his intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic for 25 years. A proud veteran, Richard served 2 years in the United States Navy followed by 20 years of service as a Master Seargent in the United States Army Reserves. Richard was especially proud of earning his Master’s Degree from Webster University in St. Louis while working full-time and raising five children with his loving wife, Elnita.

He was also a dedicated member of many organizations, including Mount Moriah Masonic Lodge, the VFW, Moolah Shriners, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and the Scottish Rite, where he proudly held the 32nd Degree and remained a member for 60 years.

Rich’s family was his greatest joy, evident in the countless hours he spent cheering from the sidelines at his grandchildren’s events and activities. He showed up faithfully to support them in whatever they pursued, always present and encouraging. He had a profound impact on his children’s lives, instilling in them the values of faith, hard work, patriotism, and a deep love of family.

Beyond his career, military service, and devotion to family, Rich enjoyed swimming, deer and antelope hunting, practicing real estate, preparing taxes, and volunteering at the library and local election polls. Though not an avid golfer, he experienced one of the game’s greatest thrills—a hole in one. He also had a passion for travel, visiting 49 of the 50 states and 6 of the 7 continents.

He was raised Southern Baptist and was a devoted member of Waypoint Church, where he found strength in prayer.

He will be remembered as a kind and devoted man who deeply loved his faith, his family, his country, and his community. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial donations may be made to: American Heart Association or Alzheimer's Association

The family is being served by Pitman Funeral Home in Wentzville.

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