Longtime Wellsburg Construction Worker Richard Kearns Dies at 71

Kearns was known for his tireless work ethic and passion for tinkering with trucks and John Deere equipment.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Richard Michael Kearns, a 71-year-old self-employed constructor from Wellsburg, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026 at the Cleveland Clinic with his family by his side. Kearns was born on February 14, 1954 in Wheeling, West Virginia and was the son of the late Daril Kearns and Stella Mae (Clark) Kearns. He is survived by his wife, three children, five grandchildren, and numerous other family members.

Why it matters

Kearns was a longtime fixture in the Wellsburg community, known for his strong work ethic and passion for construction and mechanics. His passing marks the end of an era for a local family-owned construction business and highlights the importance of skilled tradespeople in small towns.

The details

Richard Kearns worked as a self-employed constructor and took great pride in his work. He was known for spending countless hours tinkering with trucks and John Deere equipment. In addition to his construction work, Kearns is survived by his wife, three children, five grandchildren, and numerous other family members.

  • Richard Kearns was born on February 14, 1954 in Wheeling, West Virginia.
  • Kearns passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026 at the Cleveland Clinic.

The players

Richard Michael Kearns

A 71-year-old self-employed constructor from Wellsburg, West Virginia who was known for his tireless work ethic and passion for tinkering with trucks and John Deere equipment.

Daril Kearns

Richard Kearns' late father.

Stella Mae (Clark) Kearns

Richard Kearns' late mother.

Sharon Ann (Cunningham) Kearns

Richard Kearns' wife.

Shawn Kearns, Sr.

One of Richard Kearns' three children.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Wellsburg, especially with the way the town has changed over the years.”

— Shawn Kearns, Sr., Richard Kearns' son (Wellsburg Herald)

What’s next

Richard Kearns' funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Chambers Funeral Home in Wellsburg, with interment to follow at Franklin Cemetery.

The takeaway

The passing of Richard Kearns marks the end of an era for a hardworking, family-owned construction business in Wellsburg. His legacy of skilled craftsmanship and dedication to his community will be remembered by all who knew him.