Obituaries

Richard E. “Dickey” Cobb, 80, of Martinsville, VA, passed away on January 2, 2026, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He was born on February 17, 1945, in Edenton, NC, to the late Clyde C. Cobb Sr., and Dasie D. Cobb. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Clyde C. Cobb Jr. and sister, Joan C. Boswell.

Dickey received his bachelor’s degree in history from East Carolina University and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Virginia Tech. He started his 37-year teaching career in Henry County in 1969 at G.W. Carver High School. Later, he served as the Curriculum Specialist for Social Studies and Health/PE. Richard enjoyed traveling, reading, spending time with his grandchildren, and watching his beloved Carolina Tar Heels. He was also member of the First Baptist Church of Collinsville for 46 years, serving as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and usher.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Patsy P. Cobb of the home; daughter, Kimberly C. Beckner of Collinsville, VA; son, Chad (Brandie) Cobb of Maryville, TN; two grandchildren who were the joy of his life, Dustin Beckner of Roanoke, VA, and Katelyn Cobb of Maryville, TN; sister-in-law, Brenda Richardson of Newbern, NC; and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Amedysis Hospice Care, especially Mallory Knight and Haley Adkins for their support and care over the past three months.

The visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 6:00 P.M.to 8:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church in Collinsville, VA. The funeral service will be Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at the church with Reverend Dr. Larry Cheek officiating. Burial will follow the service at Roselawn Burial Park.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or First Baptist Church Collinsville, P.O. Box 36, Collinsville, VA 24078.

Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory Inc. is serving the Cobb family.