Richard Dale Rentfro

Richard Dale Rentfro, 84, of Vandalia, Mo, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend passed away at his home surrounded by family on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

A memorial visitation celebrating Richard's life will be held 5:00 to 7:00 PM Saturday, March 28, 2026, full military honor's will be held following the visitation at 7:00 PM at Waters Funeral Home inVandalia.

Richard was born to the union of Homer Lewis and Hazel Valentine (Seeley) Rentfro on February 23, 1942 in Wellsville, Missouri at the family home. He graduated from Community R-6. Richard served in the U.S. Army from July 10, 1960 to December 16, 1960, and went on to serve in the Army National Guard for the next 6 years. During that period of time, Richard found employment working as a mechanic for Jones Used Cars and met the love of his life in 1961. Richard married Vickie Lou Jones on September 7, 1963 at the First Christian Church in Vandalia, Missouri.

From their union, they were blessed with three children; Dr. Lauren Dale Rentfro (Brenda) of New Lenox, Illinois; Aaron Wayne Rentfro, Sr. (Angela) of Vandalia, Missouri; and Christy Shelton of Vandalia, Missouri.

Richard continued to work as a mechanic for his father-in-law, until he took over the business in 1979 and finally retired in 2014. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, wood working, gardening, and bar-b-queing. He was also known for always having candy in his pockets to share with anyone and everyone, especially his peppermints. He always had a joke to tell and could make you laugh, and could definitely keep you on your toes. He was stubborn to a fault, but showed you the true value of hard work and always helping someone when they needed it.

Richard is survived by his wife: Vickie Lou Rentfro; his three children: Dr. Lauren Dale Rentfro (Brenda); Aaron Wayne Rentfro, Sr. (Angela); and Christy Shelton; grandchildren: Aaron Wayne Rentfro, Jr. (Jenna); Rachel Rentfro; Ashley Harvey (Brice); Abigail Shelton, and Madison Shelton; great-grandchildren: Everett Harvey; Scarlett Harvey; and Marcella Rentfro; sisters: Francis Troesser and Joanne Green (Roger); and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, in care of Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Richard's memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com