Richard “Dale” Gause, 79 years old, left this world peacefully on November 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends at his home.

Dale was born on January 23, 1946, in Loris, SC, the son of Shirley Dayton and Ruth Harrelson Gause. He grew up in Loris where he developed a passion for automobiles. After graduating from high school, he moved to Columbia, SC to start his family and career in the automotive industry. Before retiring, he worked with the vision impaired for 10 years. In his free time, he enjoyed his cars and showing them off. Dale was affiliated with Sunset Felines Rescue in the efforts of rescuing and adopting stray cats.

Dale leaves behind his wife Marlene Gause of 44 years and his 2 daughters Wanda “Dale” Wagoner (Steph), and Rhonda “Roni” Richardson (Wyman). Three grandchildren: Hannah Richardson, James and Jon Wagoner. He is also survived by his sisters; Donna Todd (Winston), Silvia Dorman (Legrande), Sandra Hardee (Sammy), Paula Soles, and Sharon Hooks and a brother Dennis Gause (Sarah) as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Services will be Monday December 1, 2025, at Thompson Funeral Home on Augusta Hwy, Lexington, SC. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. followed by services at 2:00 p.m. with burial at Lexington Memorial Cemetery in Lexington, SC.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, to make donations to Bread of Life Church 5235 Platt Springs Road, Lexington, SC 29073 or Sunset Felines Rescue – in memory of Dale Gause– Address Marlene Gause, 105 Peaceful Lane, West Columbia, SC 29170

“Dale will be greatly missed by family and friends”