Richard McCall Foard

Richard McCall Foard, 99, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, surrounded by his wife Joan and his family. Born in Charlotte on January 5, 1927, to Mary Belle and Ernest Foard, he was a fifth-generation direct descendant of John Foard, signer of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence. A member of the Greatest Generation, Richard left high school to serve in the Navy during wartime, then returned to excel in football and track at Central High School. He played in the NC/SC Shrine Bowl and ran on the state championship track team before continuing his education at UNC-Chapel Hill and Clemson University.

He met Joan Shuler and knew immediately he would marry her, and the two recently celebrated 75 years of marriage. Richard devoted himself to his family, his faith, and his community. A longtime member of Selwyn Avenue Presbyterian Church since 1954, he served as deacon and Elder Emeritus, leading family devotionals each Christmas that his loved ones continue today. He coached youth sports, served as a Boy Scout leader, and gave generously of his time as a board member for Rebound, the Salvation Army Boys’ and Girls’ Club, and the Optimist Club, as well as a house leader for Habitat for Humanity.

Richard followed in his family’s footsteps as a third-generation building contractor, leading Foard Construction Company for more than thirty years. Many of the homes and buildings he constructed remain landmarks in the Charlotte area. He was also an avid golfer and longtime member of Carmel Country Club, where he formed many lifelong friendships. He cherished time at Ocean Isle Beach, where he built two homes and a boat he named “The Jojo,” and he delighted in crafting beautiful furniture and toys for his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Joan; children Richard McCall Foard Jr. (Cheryl), Gary Franklin Foard (Jane), Catherine Foard Sherard (John), and Linda Foard Roberts (George); ten grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents; siblings Clifford Foard, Martha Anne Foard Darsey, and Kenneth Baxter Foard; and son-in-law William H. Lavery. Richard lived a life of quiet strength, deep faith, and generous service, remembered by all as a caring gentleman who embraced each day with enthusiasm and grace.