04/08/1936 – 07/07/2026
James Richard Herring, of Opelika, Alabama, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, at the age of 90. He was born on April 8, 1936.
Richard was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, L.R. (“Papa”) and Alma (“Sweet Mama”) Davis, who lovingly raised him on their family farm in Oak Bowery; his mother, Mary Davis Ledbetter; and his sister, Dawn Jolly.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Evelyn Herring; his daughter, Jennifer Andrews; his son, Ronald J. Herring (Elizabeth); his stepson, Chris Ennis; and his stepdaughter, Brooklyn Ennis. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Alex Herring, Laurel (Brant) Green, Logan (Keller) Dogget, Aleah (Owen) Meadows, and Wesley Herring; his step-grandchildren, Tyler Gaither and Trace Gaither; and his great-grandchildren, Mary Larson Green and Lennon Elizabeth Meadows.
Richard graduated from LaFayette High School before attending Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now Auburn University. He went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine from the UAB College of Medicine. He dedicated more than 50 years to the practice of Internal Medicine, caring for generations of families throughout the community. As a co-founding partner of Internal Medicine Associates, he helped build a practice known for compassionate, dedicated patient care and professional excellence.
Although medicine was his calling, farming was always his passion. Having been raised on a farm in Oak Bowery, Richard maintained a lifelong love of the land. His farm remained a place of peace where he could retreat, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures that brought him joy throughout his life.
Richard was a man of wisdom, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to both his family and his patients. He generously shared his knowledge, guidance, and compassion with everyone fortunate enough to know him. His influence extended far beyond the walls of his medical practice, touching countless lives personally and professionally.
He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of service, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, patients, and all who were blessed to know him.
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