Richard Lee Tallent

Mr. Richard “Rick” Lee Tallent, age 67 passed away peacefully at CMC-Northeast on Friday, October 28, 2016.

The family will greet friends Tuesday, November 1st from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Branchview First Church of God. A service celebrating Rick’s life will follow at 4:00 with Rev. Ed Lenzer and Rev. James Mullis officiating.

Rick was born November 27, 1948 in Cabarrus County, son of the late Luther Lee Tallent and Helen Marie Raymer Tallent. For many years, he was employed with Food Lion as meat market manager. From the time he was a small boy, he had a love for horses and owned his first one when he turned 13. After he left Food Lion, Rick followed his heart and became a trainer, breeder and anything that applied to horses. He was a Showman of Appaloosas where he has won National, World and Canadian championships. He was very involved in the local and state levels as well. Rick was also self-employed doing other various jobs in the community. Rick grew up in the Church of God church, having been an active member for many years. He loved playing and coaching softball, especially the church leagues.

For those who knew Rick Tallent, knew that he had a heart of gold. It was his mission in life to take care of other people, whether it was a friend or stranger. If he saw a need that he could fill, he filled it. He also had a big heart for children, and they tended to gravitate toward Rick. He taught so many how to ride horses and he taught so many the value of good work ethics by giving them jobs at the stables. He was tough, but later rewarded them with cookouts and bon fires. Rick’s first priority was his family. They loved him dearly and will miss him but they do have a comfort and peace knowing that he is no longer suffering from his illness.

Those left to cherish Rick’s memory are his loving and faithful wife, Leisa Christenbury Tallent; children, Leigh Ann, Rick, and Zack; several step-children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; siblings, Letha Rinehardt and husband, Jim, Becky Cooper and husband, Steve, George Tallent and wife, Jeanette and Kenny Tallent and wife, Susan; many nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and friends who cherished Rick and will miss him.

A special thank you is offered to Rick’s best friends, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Springer for their friendship and continuing support.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Court, Glen Allen, VA 23060, the American Diabetes Association, 1300 Baxter Street, Suite 150, Charlotte, NC 28204 or to a charity of your choice in Rick’s memory.