Obituary of Richard Austin King

Richard Austin King, 87, passed away peacefully on March 3rd, 2017 in Chapel Hill. He was born in Philadelphia on March 26, 1929. He is survived by his wife, Margaret S. King (Margy), and their children Richard R. King (Hala), Gordon T. King (Erin), and Sarah. V. King (Clayton), and by grandchildren Grant, Bradley, Eleanor, and Emily. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati and received a Ph.D. at Duke University. He taught experimental and physiological psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and held a joint appointment in neurobiology in the UNC medical school. In addition, he served as an academic advisor to undergraduate seniors in the Dean's office of the UNC College of Arts and Sciences. He was named a Bowman and Gordon Gray professor for excellence in teaching. He was a problem solver and believed in "paying it forward." He was involved with building houses with Habitat for Humanity for many years, also serving on their board and as chair of the Habitat Board. ˙He participated in many volunteer activities at Carolina Meadows. He had many roles at University Presbyterian Church, including Elder, Trustee, and Sunday School teacher. He is remembered for his enthusiasm, caring and whimsical sense of humor. He was a great Dad, reading to his children when they were young and giving each of the characters special voices. Each of us remember many hikes in the woods together. He served with the U.S. Army Signal Corps in Arctic Canada near Hudson Bay, testing equipment for use in Korea. He and Margy celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 1st, 2016. A memorial service will be held in the auditorium at Carolina Meadows retirement community on Friday, March 24th at 2 p.m. An additional memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 25th at 2 p.m. at University Presbyterian Church, 209 East Franklin St. in Chapel Hill. In lieu of flowers, contributions to a Memorial fund in his honor may be sent to https://www.youcaring.com/richardaking-774331 Walker's Funeral Home of Chapel Hill is honored to serve the King family. Online condolences may be offered at www.walkersfuneralservice.com.