Richard Eugene Bess

Richard Eugene Bess, 83, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, in Lebanon, Ohio. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Richard lived a life marked by dedication to family, service to country through his engineering work, and a deep appreciation for adventure and community.

Born on December 1, 1941, in New Castle, Indiana, Richard was the son of Cecil and Maurine Bess. He graduated from New Castle High School in 1959 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Cincinnati College of Engineering in 1964. His academic journey included co-op placements that began in November 1960 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base-an institution that would become the cornerstone of his professional life.

Richard's career at Wright-Patt spanned nearly four decades. Starting as a GS-3 Engineering Trainee in the Aeronautical Systems Division and the Air Force Flight Dynamics Lab, he steadily rose through the ranks due to his exceptional skill and unwavering commitment. Over the years, he contributed to the development of nearly every airframe fielded by the U.S. Air Force since the 1960s. His efforts were recognized with numerous accolades, culminating in an Outstanding Civilian Career Service Award upon his retirement in December 1999.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard was known for his intelligence, generosity, and quiet strength. He had a reserved yet deeply caring nature and was always looking out for others. Social and fun-loving with an optimistic spirit, he brought warmth and humor into every room he entered.

Richard shared a loving marriage of 62 years with Patricia Bess, his wife and partner through many chapters of life. Together they raised two children: Christopher (Lisa) Bess and Cori (Chad) Royer. He took great joy in coaching Chris's elementary soccer team-a reflection of his hands-on approach to parenting.

Family remained central throughout Richard's life. He was a proud grandfather to Alyssa (Jordan) Adams; Gavin (Shannon) Greaney; Hanna (Vladimir) Bogdanovic; Luke Royer; and Mary Royer; and a delighted great-grandfather to Elliott Greaney as well as Theodore and Luka Bogdanovic. He is also remembered fondly by his sister Jane (Charles) Glinka; sister-in-law Sandra (Tony) Swann; brother-in-law Michael (Lisa) Pfenninger; nephews Michael (Jennifer) Quinn, Brian (Michelle) Quinn, Kevin Swann, Adam (Shelly) Pfenninger; nieces Joy Bess and Amanda Cook (Brad); along with numerous great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Cecil and Maurine Bess; brothers David and Stephen Bess; sisters-in-law Elaine Bess and Nancy Cook; and nephew Scott Swann.

Faith played an important role throughout Richard's life. He grew up attending First United Methodist Church in New Castle. During his working years in Dayton, he and Patricia were active members of Concord United Methodist Church in Englewood. In his spare time he pursued passions such as woodworking and antique cars including his cherished Chrysler Airflow. He was a loyal Cincinnati Bearcat fan his entire life.

After retirement, Richard fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving with Patricia to Nokomis, Florida. There he embraced community leadership as president of the Nokomis East Neighborhood Association for many years.

Travel was another great love for Richard. With Patricia by his side, he explored Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada by train-and countless destinations across the continental United States-often via cruise ships or road trips that turned into unforgettable adventures.

In quieter moments at home or while traveling between destinations, Richard enjoyed solving Sudoku puzzles-a small reflection of the sharp mind that served him so well throughout life.

Richard Eugene Bess leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, curiosity, kindness, and enduring love for family and community. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Services will be held at 12:00 pm Monday, November 17, 2025 at Hinsey Brown Funeral Service in New Castle with Eric Bowman officiating. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to pinkribbongood.org. You may express condolences or share a memory of Richard at www.hinseybrownfuneralservice.com