Chief Master Sergeant Richard “Richie” W. McCorkle, died of natural causes at Alaska Regional Medical Center on March 17, 2021.
CMSgt McCorkle, 48, was assigned to the 3rd Wing as the superintendent of Agile Combat Employment at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska. A native of Winona, Chief McCorkle initially entered active military service in March 1991.
“Chief McCorkle was an invaluable leader, mentor, and Airman. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends,” said Col. Travolis Simmons, 3rd Wing Commander.
CMSgt McCorkle’s awards and decorations include Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with five oak leaf clusters, southwest Asia Service Medal with three devices, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with one oak leaf cluster, and an Afghanistan Campaign Medal.
CMSgt McCorkle is survived by his wife, Tracey McCorkle; father, Roy Wayne McCorkle, sister, Beth Severtson; and his loving dog, Riley.
A graveside service with full military honors will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 29, at Scotland Baptist Church Cemetery near Winona, with Rev. Kevin Jackson officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or to the Fisher House Foundation, 12300 Twinbrook Pkwy, Suite 410 Rockville, MD 20852.
Jennifer and Chapman Welch
Beth, Sending love to you and your family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Oliver Funeral Home of Winona, Inc. 