Richard Dwight “Rick” Alder

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Dwight “Rick” Alder, 75, on July 20, 2025.
He was born in Williamsburg, KY, to the late Robert Alder and Daisy (Jackson) Alder on January 3, 1950.
Rick was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and treasured friend. His loss is felt deeply by those who were privileged to know him. He proudly served in the US Army in the Vietnam era. He was a member of the Pleasant View Methodist Church, Williamsburg Masonic Lodge 490 F & AM, and the Knights Temple.
Rick was a man of great character who was adored by all who knew him. He also leaves behind a legacy of love. He was a pillar of strength within his family, always ready with a warm smile and kind words.
His greatest joy was his family to whom he was unstintingly devoted. As the author, Harriet Beecher Stowe, once wrote, “The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone.”
Rick Alder is survived by his loving wife of over 54 years, Brenda (Moses) Alder of Williamsburg, KY; his daughters, Heather Stewart and husband Bryan of Williamsburg, KY and Ashley Ratliff and husband Matthew of Williamsburg, KY; his grandson, Baylor Stewart; his chosen granddaughters, Morgan Huddleston, Jonna Rice, and Taylor Rice. He also leaves behind his sister, Bonita Miller; his sister-in-laws, Sheila Davis of Williamsburg, KY. and Ina Forch of Cincinnati, OH; and his brother-in-law, Jerry Moses (Lois) of London, KY; his special niece, Anita Messer of Corbin, KY, also survives him; along with several nieces, nephews, his Sunday crew that he affectionately called “My People” and a host of other family and friends to mourn his passing.
Rick’s life was enriched by the many relationships he nurtured and he will be profoundly missed.
The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 22, at 5:00 pm at Croley Funeral Home, with Rev. Joseph Moses officating.
The burial service will follow at 6:00pm at Pleasant View Oaklawn Cemetery in Williamsburg, KY.
A visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 22, at 1:00 pm at Croley Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Pleasant View Oaklawn Cemetery Fund or Pleasant View Methodist Church.
In these moments of loss and sadness, let’s remember Rick Alder’s love for life, his dedication to his family, and his tireless spirit. We invite those who knew Rick to remember him as he was, a beacon of love and kindness, and to share those memories on his memorial page. Your shared stories, photographs, and messages of love are a comfort to those who mourn his passing. As we grieve his loss, let’s remember the words of Leo Buscaglia, “Death is a challenge. It tells us not to waste time… It tells us to tell each other right now that we love each other.”
Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.