Richard Mandis

Richard Mandis, a proud U.S. Navy veteran and devoted Pop-Pop, passed away on January 10, 2026, in Lynchburg, Virginia. He was born on July 4, 1957, in New Jersey.

Richard dedicated two decades of his life to serving his country in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of E6. His final assignment was aboard the U.S.S. West Virginia out of Kingsland, Georgia—a fitting culmination to a distinguished military career marked by commitment and discipline.

Beyond his service, Richard found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a deep love for fishing, especially when accompanied by his grandsons Matthew and Gunnar and his bonus grandkids Logan and Abigail. These moments on the water were among his most cherished. A skilled woodworker, Richard also enjoyed building new projects with his hands—crafting pieces that reflected both creativity and care.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Katherine L. Johnson and her husband Frank M. Johnson; his son James R. Mandis; grandsons Matthew Mershon and Gunnar Johnson; and bonus grandchildren Logan and Abigail Lukasiewicz. He also leaves behind dear friends Ray and Barb Pape; nephew Billy Pape; and niece Christine Pape.

Richard was preceded in death by his father James W. Mandis, mother Marie Mandis, and former wife Sharon A. (Peters) Mandis.

His memory will live on through those who knew him best—in every cast line on a quiet lake, every carefully carved piece of wood, and every story shared among family and friends.

“I hope it’s windy when they spread my ashes at Sea so I can f*** up the sailor’s uniforms one last time”

-Richard Mandis

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.