Richard Nichols Showalter, Sr., age 88, of 52 Lakeview Court, Eagle Rock, Virginia, passed away Tuesday, December 6, 2011.

He was born May 19, 1923 in Iron Gate, Virginia, to the late Joseph Yount Showalter and Virginia Durham Showalter.

He served in the United States Navy during World War II.

He was a retired realtor, builder, and developer in the Alleghany Highlands. Previously, he had been a developer and builder of residential and apartment complexes in Northern Virginia.

He was recognized as a Realtor Emeritus. He was instrumental in the initiation of building the Jackson River Technical Center.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Jenny Jo Showalter and Nancy Folks.

His survived by his wife, Louise Alexander Showalter of Eagle Rock; a daughter, Sherry L. Showalter and husband, Renny O'Connor of Arlington; two sons, Scott Alexander Showalter of Eagle Rock and Richard Nichols Showalter, Jr. and wife, Melissa of Vienna; a sister, Bobbie Slusher of Charlotte, NC; three brothers, Thomas Showalter and wife Joyce of Lynchburg, Guy Showalter and wife Wanda of Fincastle, and Jack D. Showalter and wife, MaryAnn of Covington; a grandson, Scott "Alex" Showalter, Jr. of Blacksburg; a step-grandson, David Ross of Vienna; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated and a memorial service will be private and held at a later date. The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to Mountain Regional Hospice, P.O. Box 637, Clifton Forge, VA 24422 or to the Alleghany Humane Society, P.O. Box 60, Low Moor, VA 24457.

Arrangements are being handled by Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge.