Richard C. Stokes Jr.

Richard C. Stokes Jr., passed away on November 23, 2025, in Abilene, Kansas, at the age of 67. Born on March 4, 1958, in Yonkers, New York, Richie's life was characterized by his entrepreneurial spirit, his warmth, and his dedication to his community.

Richie grew up in a lively household and was predeceased by his parents, Richard Stokes Sr. and Marian Jones Stokes, his brother Andre (Lisa)Stokes, and his sister Camille Stokes. He is survived by his children, Chelsea Stokes of Kingston, Olivia Stokes of Saugerties, and Connor Stokes of Oneonta. His sisters, Debra (Ken) Kamhi of Kansas and his brother Johnny (Geri) Stokes of Yonkers, his half sister Ellen Ganzi of Georgia and Aunt Pam Stokes of North Carolina. 

A successful business owner, Richie started his journey, by hitchhiking from Yonkers, NY to the Catskills. and eventually owned and operated the Phoenicia Hotel, a cornerstone of the community. He was known for his hospitality, especially on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, when he opened the hotel doors to friends and neighbors, ensuring no one was left without a place to celebrate. His caring nature extended to providing safe transportation for his patrons, ensuring everyone got home safely after a night of revelry.

Richie's legacy includes the annual pig roast he hosted on the first weekend of June, a tradition that drew people together in celebration. His kindness was evident in his every action, always ready to lend a helping hand. A great cook, Richie was proud to serve scouse, a hearty stew that paid homage to his Liverpool roots, and his love for the Beatles' music filled the hotel with joy and nostalgia.

Professionally, Richie served as the Town of Shandaken Building Inspector and was a licensed nuisance control technician with Pesky Critters.  He served in the US Marine Corp.   His commitment to his work was matched only by his passion for his community, as evidenced by his support for the Phoenicia American Legion Post and his active involvement with the Red Knights Riding Club and the Loose Goose Motorcycle Club of New Jersey.  A loose organization of friends that would road-trip to the Phoenicia Hotel!

Richie's interests were as diverse as his skills. He fulfilled a lifelong dream by traveling to Liverpool, England, connecting with his ancestral roots and visiting the iconic Blackpool Tower. An avid outdoorsman, he was a hunter and angler, relishing in saltwater fishing expeditions and crafting his own flies for fishing in the Esopus Creek. His move to Florida saw him formulate a dream of operating a fishing charter business, and he often reminisced about fishing for blues in Belmar, New Jersey.

Golfing was another of his joys, as was his time spent caretaking at the Meadows Hill Golf Center in Margaretville. Richie had a soft spot for animals, especially his pet service ferrets, and was a skilled craftsman, creating beautiful cabinetry and staircases, even adding a second story to his home. His appreciation for collectible antiques, treasure hunting with a metal detector, and the pursuit of Dutch Schulze's hidden cache were among the many adventures that filled his life.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday December 7, 2025 from 2pm to 4pm at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home 87 Main St. Phoenicia.  You may share a special memory, photo, or condolence on Richie's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com

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