IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Richard "Dickie"

Richard "Dickie" Dempsey Moorhead Profile Photo

Dempsey Moorhead

Mar 24, 1950 — Feb 5, 2025

Gaffney

Obituary

Richard "Dickie" Moorhead

March 24, 1950 — February 5, 2025

Blacksburg, SC - - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard "Dickie" Moorhead, who left us peacefully on February 5, 2025, at the age of 74. A devoted family man, cherished friend, and pillar of his community, Dickie touched countless lives with his kindness, humor, and unwavering generosity.

Born on March 24, 1950, Dickie entered the world with one arm—but he never let that define or limit him. From an early age, he proved that nothing could stand in the way of his grit, resilience, and relentless spirit. Whether it was work, sports, or lending a hand to someone in need, Dickie did everything with the same enthusiasm and heart as anyone else—if not more. He was an inspiration to everyone who knew him, demonstrating that perseverance and positivity could overcome any obstacle. Whether he was sharing stories, offering a helping hand, or making others laugh with his signature wit, he had a gift for bringing joy to those around him.

A standout athlete at Blacksburg High School, Dickie played football and earned All-Conference and All-State honors. His talent and perseverance led to his induction into the BHS Athletic Hall of Fame, an achievement he held close to his heart. He graduated in 1968 and went on to marry the love of his life, Joyce Martin, on July 26, 1974. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and hard work.

Dickie began his career farming alongside his father, working both in land farming and hog farming. Hard work was in his blood and he carried that dedication into everything he pursued.

In 1986, Dickie took a leap of faith and founded MW Clearing and Grading, Inc., a land clearing and grading company that would grow into a respected name throughout the Southeast. With an unmatched work ethic, he built the business from the ground up. Through long days, tough jobs, and unwavering perseverance, Dickie turned MW Clearing and Grading into a thriving company known for its integrity, quality, and reliability. He took great pride in his work and his employees, treating everyone like family. His hands-on approach and leadership helped him forge lasting relationships with his customers, making a lasting impact in the industry.

In 2008, after more than two decades of dedication to the business, Dickie proudly handed over

MW Clearing and Grading, Inc. to his two sons, Richard Martin Moorhead and Patrick Lee Moorhead. He instilled in them the values of hard work, honesty, and perseverance, and he took great pride in watching them continue his legacy. Though he stepped back from the daily operations, he was always ready to offer his wisdom and support as they grew the company into the future.

Dickie dedicated his life to his career, always putting others before himself and ensuring that his loved ones knew they were cherished. Above all, Dickie's greatest love was his family. He and Joyce shared 50 wonderful years together, supporting each other through life's joys and challenges and built a life filled with love, resilience, and cherished memories. Despite the hardships he faced, including the loss of two children, he remained a source of strength and support for those around him. His grandchildren and great-grandchild brought him immense joy, and he never missed an opportunity to celebrate their achievements.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Joyce Martin Moorhead; his sons, Richard Martin

Moorhead and Patrick Lee Moorhead (Angela), both of Blacksburg, SC; his brother, Robert

Carlisle Moorhead of Greenville, SC; his nine grandchildren—Claire, Elijah, Connor, Andrew, Gabriel, Grant, Caroline, Bailee, and Aubrey; and his great-grandchild, Blakely. He was predeceased by his parents, C.C. and Margaret Moorhead; his sister, Carol Moorhead Wilkins; and his beloved children, Andrew Craig Moorhead and Callie Elizabeth Moorhead.

The family will receive friends from 1:30PM until 3:00PM on Friday, February 7, 2025 at Blakely Funeral Home.  A celebration of Dickie's life will immediately follow at 3:00 PM in the Blakely Funeral Home Chapel in Gaffney, SC with Dr. Bulo Price officiating and where all who loved him are invited to gather, share memories, and honor his legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Cherokee County Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 1886, Gaffney, SC 29342; Blacksburg ARP Church, 108 S. Chester Street, Blacksburg, SC 29702; First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 654, Blacksburg, SC 29702; Wendover Hospice, 953 Wendover Height Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

Though he is no longer with us, Dickie's legacy of hard work, love, and perseverance will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

The family will be at the residence, 269 Johns Cross Road, Blacksburg, SC 29702.

An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com

Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, SC

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Funeral Services

Visitation

February
7

Friday

1:30 - 3:00 pm

Funeral Service

February
7

Friday

Blakely Funeral Home Chapel

1047 Chesnee Highway, Gaffney, SC 29341

Starts at 3:00 pm

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Visits: 9

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