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BORN

1928

DIED

2017

Richard Campbell Obituary

Richard M. Campbell
1928-2017
Dr. Richard M. Campbell passed away March 14, 2017. Throughout his life, he was guided by his faith in the Lord and was a proponent of lifelong learning and community service. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Born in Columbus, Ohio on June 22, 1928, Dr. Campbell served in the U.S. Marine Corp. from 1946-48. He obtained his B.A. from the College of Wooster (1952), his M. Div. from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (1963), and his M.A. in Communications (1970) and his Ph.D. in Gerontology from the University of Michigan (1975).
Much of Dr. Campbell's career was dedicated to serving the Lord. In addition to two periods where he worked for YMCAs in the Chicago area early in his career, he was also the Minister of Bethel Presbyterian Church in Knightstown, Indiana (1963-66), Assistant Minister of the Mayflower Congregational Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan (1966-68), Minister of the Mt. Hope Congregational Church in Livonia, Michigan (1968-72), and Minister of Central Congregational Church in Houston, Texas (1975-93). He was also the Executive Director of the federally funded meals program for Houston-Harris County from 1978 to 1981.
Dr. Campbell had many other community service activities. He was a member of the Lone Star College System's Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2010. He was also former President of Habitat for Humanity for Northwest Harris County; former board member and President of Houston's Christian Community Service Center; past board member and President of the Houston Institute of Lifetime Learning; past board member on the Joseph C. Valley Board at the UT Health Science Center's School of Nursing; past executive committee member of the Houston Metropolitan Ministries; and past executive committee member of Texans for the Improvement of Nursing Homes and a past board member of the National Citizens Coalition for Nursing Home Reform.
Dr. Campbell is survived by his loving wife of over 57 years, Betty J. Robinson Campbell; his three children, Marshall S. Campbell, Douglas B. Campbell, and Karen M. Campbell; his grandson, Vaughn H. Campbell; his brother, Donald Campbell of Westerly, R.I., and many nieces, nephews, and their children.
A memorial service will be held at Hosanna Lutheran Church, 16,526 Ella Blvd., Houston, Texas 77090 on Sunday, April 2, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Campbell's name can be made to any of the following: Lone Star College Foundation, Office of College Advancement, 5000 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381; Habitat for Humanity – Northwest Harris County, 13350 Jones Rd, Houston, TX 77070; or Hosanna Lutheran Church, 16,526 Ella Blvd., Houston, Texas 77090.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Houston Chronicle on Mar. 26, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
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Nan & Peter

March 20, 2023

Remembering Dick and the lessons I learned. I am grateful. Love to Betty, Marshall, Douglas and Karen.

Stephen Irwin

June 21, 2018

I am just now finding out about Dr. Campbell. Tomorrow would have been his 90th birthday. Dr. Campbell was such an important part of my spiritual development growing up in the First Congregational church. He and Betty and the church were there for me when my parents passed away while I was still in college. He married me and Katherine 25 years ago and we will always cherish the memories of spending time and adventures with them in Spain. Our love and condolences to Betty and their kids. We will miss his yearly Christmas letters. Rest in peace Dr. Campbell. You are missed tremendously.

April 1, 2017

Dr. Campbell was truly a man who lived his Faith. I remember when I first met him as I began working at CCSC in the 80s with him. It was a privilege to know such a loving person who truly cared about others. When my husband Richard died in the 90s he wrote me a beautiful letter that I have always kept. What a legacy as he was a very caring Christian friend. May God comfort his wife Betty and the family.
Suzanne Girouard

March 26, 2017

Onward to the next adventure, Dick! I'm sure he is embracing the opportunity. For those of us left behind, we appreciate having known and learned from him. And thanks, too, for marrying us - that union is strong after 30+ years. To Betty and the kids, Peter and I send our condolences for your loss. I know there is a big void in your lives, but thanks to Karen, probably lots of good family pics. With mucho love - Nan & Peter

March 24, 2017

We are truly going to miss you. Barbara and Bob Dejmal.

Matt Harris

March 23, 2017

I wish I had know Dr. Campbell better, but am sure I have insight into his tremendous character through knowing my dear friend, his son, Marshall. I am so very sorry for your loss, and trust that you will be comforted knowing that his Heavenly Father has welcomed him home with a loving embrace, and that his legacy lives on through his loving wife and three wonderful children. God bless you all! "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

A Merry Christmas with Dick and Betty

Nancy Eudy

March 23, 2017

John and I could have searched the globe and never found neighbors as grand--and for almost thirty years--as the Campbell clan. Dick, a gentleman,scholar and community leader,inspired the pack. We will always remember his kindness, his infectious laughter, and how he helped those less fortunate. He had a grateful heart and appreciated his family and friends. We will miss him but are thankful for the precious memories of our times together. Always, Nancy and John Eudy

Karen Campbell

March 23, 2017

Dad, we love you and miss you! So thankful we had many joyful years together! Love, Karen Campbell

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Memorial Events
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Apr

2

Memorial service

1:30 p.m.

Hosanna Lutheran Church

16,526 Ella Blvd., Houston, TX

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