Richard Gail Peckham passed away unexpectedly on June 12, 2025, in Hampton, Virginia.  He was 62 years old.

Richard was born on October 16, 1962, at Itazuke Air Force Base in Japan, where his father was stationed at the time. He was a twin brother, the seventh of eight eventual children of Everett and Rosa Peckham.

Richard was diagnosed at a very early age with intellectual and motor disabilities, conditions that remained with him throughout his life.  He was raised in a large, loving family, where he was adored and protected by all of his siblings.  As a youngster, Richard attended special education classes, first at a regular school. As a young adult, he moved into the Sarah Bonwell Hudgins Center, where he lived for several years before transitioning to Versability's Hollywood House in Hampton. He remained there until his passing.

Richard is survived by his fraternal twin brother Roger (Lorrie) Peckham, sister Delina (Larry) Youngs, and brothers Bryan (Sharon) Peckham and John (Lisa) Peckham, as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by parents, Everett and Rosa Peckham, sisters Vicki Baber and Nancy Gray, and brother Barry Peckham.

Richard was the most beloved of all the children. He had the remarkable ability to love everyone equally - strangers, family, and friends alike. Richard cherished his time with family, and they made sure he was able to spend as much time with them as possible.  Although Richard had limited abilities, he also had unique and wonderful skills.  From an early age he was fascinated with spinning things, and had the incredible ability to spin just about any object on his finger -- things that were meant to be spun (like basketballs) and also crazy stuff (like clothes baskets, books, and coffee cans). The Harlem Globetrotters had nothing on him!  He also had an exceptional memory for people's names.  He could recall old friends and teacher's names from years past, often saying their name with a little chuckle that revealed just how much he remembered them and cared for them.

Richard loved the simple joys in life—the kind of things most of us take for granted. He especially enjoyed going for rides in the car with the radio playing, singing along with a smile, and honking the horn when he was allowed. One of his favorite outings was a trip to Krispy Kreme for donuts and coffee, where he'd sit with his dad and listen in as his father and retired friends "solved the world's problems."  He also loved going to Hot Dog King with his dad and brothers, sharing food, laughter, and time together. Movies were another favorite pastime—especially ones he could sing along to, over and over again. His all-time favorite was The Sound of Music, though he affectionately called it Mary Poppins.  But what Richard cherished most was visiting his dad's and brothers' homes. For many years, he would say "Daddy's on Sunday" all week long, a joyful reminder to everyone of where he most wanted to be. Sundays were special. He and his dad often spent the day at Busch Gardens, riding the skyride and heading over to Oktoberfest to sing along with the Burgermeister. On the ride home, they'd share cans of peanuts, making a glorious mess—like the Cookie Monster, as they'd say. It was messy, fun, and full of laughter—just one of many beautiful memories they created together.

Later in Richard's life, as his father grew older and was no longer able to visit as often, Richard's brothers and their families lovingly stepped in. They welcomed him into their homes on weekends and made sure he was never short on family time. Richard loved being with each of them, and his visits were just as special to them as they were to him.  Roger and Lorrie visited Richard regularly and even created a monthly schedule so he'd know exactly which family he'd be visiting each week. This brought Richard great joy and comfort. Bryan and Sharon also spent a lot of time with him. Bryan was known for whipping up Richard's favorite breakfasts, always accompanied by a generous amount of coffee—something Richard adored. He didn't like it too hot, though, because he'd guzzle it down and quickly ask for more.  Sharon had a truly special bond with Richard. At family gatherings, she would sit with him, hold his hand, and talk with him. He'd often kiss her on the cheek and giggle with delight. She had a unique way of connecting with him—able to gently encourage him in ways no one else could.  John and Lisa also welcomed Richard into their home often.  As his mobility declined, they became his primary caregivers outside of Hollywood House. Richard and John shared a deep and special relationship. John would give him his monthly haircuts and shaves when needed. They would eat together, with salad, pizza, and plenty of coffee on the menu, of course. They also loved to watch movies and listen to 70's rock or Christmas music (songs Richard knew by heart). To Richard, John wasn't just a brother—he was a hero.  Richard also cherished phone calls and FaceTime chats with his sister, Delina, and her husband, Larry, from sunny Florida. He especially looked forward to visiting with them whenever they were in town.

Richard was cared for with compassion and dedication by the wonderful staff at Hollywood House. The family will never be able to fully express their gratitude to each and every one of them for all they did over the many years Richard lived there. They made sure he felt loved, safe, and valued every single day—and Richard, in turn, truly loved them as well.  The family will always be deeply grateful, not only for the staff's professionalism but for the genuine emotional connection they formed with Richard. Their care went far beyond duty—it was heartfelt, and it made a lasting difference in his life.

Richard touched all of our lives in ways that are difficult to put into words. His spirit, his laughter, and his quiet strength left an imprint that few could truly comprehend. We will all miss him deeply. He gave more to each of us than he will ever know.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Richard will be held on Saturday, June 21, at 11 a.m. at Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, located at 2609 Cunningham Dr., Hampton, Virginia, 23666. A reception will follow the service.