The celebration of life services for Richard were held at at THE ROCK, (Danville Foursquare Church) in Danville, CA on Saturday, February 24, 2018. At the time of his death, Richard was serving as Assisting Minister of that church.
The following is an article written by Richard's wife, Nicki Hatton and published in his memorial service folder:
Soon after I said good-bye to Dick, I had a picture of him in Heaven as I awoke from sleeping. It was as if I was there with him, in the background watching. I could see him enjoying the glorious sights and sounds that he longed to see all his years on the earth.
Several weeks before his passing he had begun to hear a symphony of heavenly music that had no source but a supernatural one. He loved music and he loved to sing. Even in his very last days here, I believe God was giving him a foretaste of the joy that was coming.
I saw him in Heaven experiencing wholeness, full health and complete joy. We can all testify to the truth that Dick never met a stranger. I saw him meeting and chatting with his heroes of the Bible. He was intrigued by them, preached about them and could identify with them. They were his companions and friends in his journey of faith.
As I lay in bed, this new beginning for Dick brought me so much comfort and joy. I honestly didn't want to wake up. To see him with his Bible friends, to know Jesus was there, and he was seeing him face to face.
To know that Dick was once again able to embrace and laugh with his dear family and friends is such a sweet vision. Though I miss him deeply, I am confident of getting to share in that sweetness with him one day.
I am thankful for his support over the decades of our ministry. He always believed in me, beyond what I could see in myself. He gave me courage and cheered me on.
He was my beloved for over 56 years. And though we shared this great and beautiful love, Jesus and His Word were his first love always.
--- Nicki Hatton