Dana Steven Radabaugh

First Sergeant Dana Steven Radabaugh (U.S. Army, Retired), 77, of Locust Hill, was called to his heavenly home unexpectedly on July 15, 2025.

Dana was born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, on December 29, 1947. He spent his childhood in Harrison and Preston Counties, graduating from Kingwood High School in 1966. It was there he met the love of his life, Charlotte Ann Patterson. As inseparable high school sweethearts, Dana and Charlotte rarely spent time apart over their 61 years together and were blessed with 58 years of marriage.

Dana enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1967 and proudly served his country for 22 years. During the Vietnam War, he served as a mechanic and crew chief in the 121st Assault Helicopter Company. The family was stationed at several posts throughout his career, with Germany being their favorite. After retiring in 1989, he was a JROTC instructor for several years in Pittsburgh, PA.

While on a drive through Middlesex County in 1992, Dana and Charlotte spotted a beautiful dogwood tree adjacent to a modest home for sale. They fell in love with the area and resided at Locust Hill for the past 33 years. Each spring, Dana could predict almost to the day when that beloved dogwood tree would bloom. Locally, he worked for Quinn Motors, the Middle Peninsula Regional Security Center, Mathews County Sheriff’s Office, and Middlesex County Public Schools.

The family grew with the birth of three grandsons in 2000: twins Cole and Tyler Radabaugh, and Logan Meadows. In retirement, Dana enjoyed cheering on his grandsons and their friends, fixing up cars, and fishing. He could often be found touring Locust Hill on his golf cart, napping with the dogs, or simply making his “honey” happy every single day. He never took a moment for granted.

Dana had a special heart for children and to help those in need- often unbeknownst to the recipients. For a period in his life he embraced the role of Santa each holiday season. In recent years, he was known for donating a children’s bicycle each Christmas.

Dana was preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. Radabaugh and Helen Z. Pigott Radabaugh; siblings, R. Keith Radabaugh and Carolyn Radabaugh Price.

Dana is survived by his wife, Charlotte Patterson Radabaugh, daughter, Cheryl Radabaugh Meadows (Mark), son, Russell S. Radabaugh (Zialcita), grandsons, Cole S. Radabaugh, M. Tyler Radabaugh, and Logan K. Meadows, siblings, Larry V. Radabaugh (Tammy), S. Earl Radabaugh (Leola), Richard W. Radabaugh, F. Dale Radabaugh, and Brenda H. Radabaugh (Dave), as well as a host of extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, at Harmony Grove Baptist Church, 7722 General Puller Hwy, Topping. Food and fellowship will follow at the church. Private interment will follow at a later date.

In memory of Dana, please carry on his servant’s heart with random acts of kindness and charity. This holiday season, consider donating a bicycle to a child in need.

Faulkner Funeral Homes, Bristow-Faulkner Chapel, Saluda is assisting the family.