Mr. Richard John Brink, 44, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully within the familiar and comforting confines of his own home following an extended illness on Monday, January 31, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born in Jacksonville, North Carolina on October 16, 1977 to Alan E. Brink of Elkhart and the late Mary Jean (Long) Brink, who, sadly, just recently passed away last June.

Surviving Richard along with his dad, Alan, are his siblings Alan E. Brink II and Janie Elizabeth Brink, as well as a loving host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and good friends.

Richard's family will be celebrating his life at the Prayer House Church of God in Christ at 1114 Cone Street in Elkhart on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 11:00 pm, with visitation beginning there at 10 am. The Reverend Robert Simon, Pastor, will be officiating and burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart have been assisting the Brink family with arrangements.

Richard was a sweet, non-verbal autistic person who was the light in his parents' eyes. Although not employed, he kept himself busy watching his TV programs, going through food drive-thrus with his family and going on Sunday rides after church. Richard and his family had been long-time members of the Prayer House Church and he attended often as his parents (especially his mom, Mary) were involved in all sorts of church-related activities. The family's close relationship with their church was also nurtured by Prayer House's Pastor and First Lady Simon, who checked in on Richard's family regularly and became close friends with them. Bright, happy and inquisitive, Richard will continue to live on within the hearts of those who loved and knew him the best.

Friends and family wishing to make a monetary donation in Richard's memory may do so by sending your contribution to either Prayer House Church or to the charity of one's choice. Additionally, please be sure to thoroughly browse Richard's obit page, as you are able to leave condolences and memories, post photographs on his memory wall, and order other funerary items in regard to the family.