Richard Eshelman

Richard Adam Eshelman, 62, met his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 in Phoenix, AZ. Richard was born in Aurora, Illinois on April 21, 1961 during a snowstorm. He was one of four children born to Vernon Eshelman and Mary McGinness.

Richard grew up in Oklahoma and graduated from Sapulpa High School in 1979. Later, he attended Tulsa Community College and Northeastern State University where he graduated with his bachelor's degree in finance. In recent years, he continued to pursue higher education and was working towards a master's degree at Grand Canyon University, in Phoenix. Richard was a natural leader and held several management jobs throughout his life. Most recently, Richard worked for USAA as a mortgage processor handling mortgage loans for military personnel and civilian members of USAA.

Richard was an elder in his church, Covenant International Church, where he and his wife have been active members and volunteers for over 20 years. Richard was dedicated to his family and his church. He was a man of God. He was known for his magnificent cooking skills, beautiful singing voice, and quick smile. Richard had the ability to put people at ease with his presence. He was kind, loving, and generous. He never met a stranger. He loved life, and his laughter could fill a room. He had a great appreciation for black coffee, a good thunderstorm, and telling jokes. He was an avid OU fan and enjoyed playing pool, traveling with his wife, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was an animal-lover, and he was especially smitten with his dogs, Tator Tot and Poppy. He adored his wife and he was abundantly proud of his daughters and grandchildren.

Richard is preceded in death by his father, Vernon Eshelman. He is survived by his beloved wife, Arlene Stephanie, as well as his children Tara Brown and husband Joshua of Sand Springs, OK, Ricki Hoover and husband Nathan of Moore, OK, Jennifer Northrup and husband Alan of Yucaipa, CA, and Christina Brown and husband Cliff of Round Rock, TX. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Thatcher Brown, Graer Brown, Carter Brown, Kyle Northrup, Avery Northrup, Khloe Northrup, Rebecca Conrad, Cassie Conrad, and Vanessa Conrad. Other survivors include many extended family members and numerous friends who were like family to him.

A celebration of life for Richard will be held at The Valley Cathedral Church located at 4002 W. Union Hills Drive, Glendale AZ, 85308 on Saturday, Sept. 2nd at 10am and will be officiated by Pastor Seratt. A private memorial for the family will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard's memory to Covenant International Church (CIC).