Dick Marcear

Honoring the Life and Faith of Dick Marcear

(April 13, 1938 – March 26, 2026)

In loving memory of Dick Marcear, a devoted servant of God, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Dick Marcear was born on April 13, 1938, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He grew up in Tulsa, where he distinguished himself as a gifted athlete, serving as captain of both his high school football and tennis teams.

At the age of 13, Dick experienced a moment that would shape the course of his life forever. Invited to church by his next-door neighbor—a widow—Dick encountered the message of Jesus Christ for the first time. Though his family had not attended church, Dick was immediately moved. Like those described in Acts 2:38 who were “cut to the heart,” Dick felt that same conviction the moment he heard the Gospel. From that day forward, he committed his life to Christ and began preparing for ministry, even practicing sermons in his room as a young teenager.

After high school, Dick attended Abilene Christian College (now Abilene Christian University), where he pursued a degree in ministry. Demonstrating determination and faith, he even hitchhiked to reach campus. While there, he played football and spent his Sundays preaching in small surrounding communities, often bringing teammates along to lead singing. On one memorable occasion, persuaded to lead singing himself, Dick realized that while he knew the words, the melodies did not quite follow—confirming his calling to preaching.

Years later, the same widow who first invited him to church left Dick her home, a lasting testament to the impact of her faith and kindness.

During a summer internship at a Christian camp in East Texas, Dick met Lou Nell Kite, the daughter of the camp’s song leader. It was love at first sight for Dick. Though Lou Nell was already in a committed relationship at the time, Dick remained steadfast. Over the years, his persistence and devotion won her heart. They were married and began a lifelong journey together that would span 65 years.

Dick began his ministry in Thermopolis, Wyoming, before serving at the Springdale Church of Christ in Tulsa. He later moved to Fort Worth, Texas, where he preached at Trail Lake Church of Christ, which grew significantly and eventually became Alta Mesa Church of Christ.

In 1977, Dick was called to serve as minister at Central Church of Christ in Amarillo, Texas, where he served faithfully until 1999. During his time there, he became widely known for his daily radio messages—short, uplifting stories that concluded with an invitation to attend the “Exciting Central Church of Christ.” These broadcasts reached listeners across the Texas Panhandle and played a significant role in the church’s growth to more than 2,000 members. Many still remember those messages today.

Under Dick’s leadership, Central Church of Christ constructed a new building in 1983 and set a Guinness World Record for the largest amount of donations received in a single day.

Following his time at Central, Dick went on to plant The Colonies Church of Christ in Amarillo. Beginning with 120 people meeting at Puckett Elementary School, the congregation quickly grew. Within two years, they established a permanent building on 45th Avenue near Soncy Road, continuing to thrive as a vibrant church community.

Dick was also known nationwide for his “love letters,” which he sent to Churches of Christ across the country. Through these letters, he encouraged congregations to live in the love of Christ. To this day, many still speak of the impact and encouragement those letters brought.

Above all, Dick will be remembered as an encourager. He had a remarkable gift for remembering names and personal details about others, making everyone feel seen and valued. His life was marked by kindness, forgiveness, generosity, and a deep desire to follow Jesus. His compassion overflowed in his actions, his words brought hope, and his unwavering support uplifted countless lives. Each day, he sought to love others as Christ loves us.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Lou Nell Marcear; his son, Rick Marcear and wife Darla; his daughter, D’Nan Marcear Scott and husband Madison; his grandsons, Hunter Scott, and Sam Marcear and wife Faith; his granddaughters, Millie Thompson and husband Jacob, and Mary-Claire Leigh-Manuell and husband Triston; and his great-granddaughters, Bonnie and Lottie.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and encouragement that will continue to inspire generations.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 2:00 PM, at The Church of Christ at The Colonies, 4500 Wesley Rd., Amarillo, Texas, 79119. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.