Richard A. Bevan Jr.

Richard A. Bevan, Jr., age 71, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at his home in Frankford, Delaware, surrounded by his loving stepchildren and devoted caregivers over the past year-Sami Mitchell, Calvin Mitchell, III and Jodie Banks.

Born and raised in Princess Anne, Maryland, Rich was the son of the late Richard A. Bevan, Sr. and Martha L. Bevan. After graduating from Washington High School in 1972, he continued his education at Chowan College in Murfreesboro, NC, and Delaware Technical Community College in Georgetown, DE. He retired from the State of Delaware's Office of Technology & Information, where he built a meaningful career.

In his younger years, Rich had a passion for drag racing his 1971 Camaro at the U.S. 13 Dragway in Delmar, DE. He was an avid NASCAR fan, always cheering for Dale Earnhardt, Sr., and cherished trips to Dover Motor Speedway with family and friends. A true hobbyist at heart, he also enjoyed operating his Ham radio.

In 2012, Rich met the love of his life, Lisa Pauley. He lovingly called her his "Honeysuckle." Their relationship brought immense joy and an extended family that Rich welcomed with open arms. They married in 2016 and shared years of laughter, music, travel, and quality time with their beloved dog, Cooper. Their home was a gathering place for game nights, corn hole tournaments, cookouts, holiday celebrations, and annual vacations to Chincoteague, VA. Lisa's passing in 2018 was a profound loss for Rich, but the joy they shared remained a bright light in his life.

In the years that followed, Rich found new passions in traveling, mini golf, scooter rides, and "linner" with Lisa's family. He will be remembered for his love of fireworks, his unforgettable sense of humor, and his affection for corny jokes that never failed to bring smiles to those around him.

Rich is survived by his sisters, Beverly Bevan and her husband, Lawrence Bayly of Crownsville, MD; Judith Bevan and her partner, Genie Gunn of Boone, NC; and his brother, Tom Bevan and his wife, Carole of Westover, MD. He also leaves behind his stepchildren: Calvin Mitchell, III and his wife, Sami of Laurel, DE; Jamie Mitchell and his wife, Megan of Lewes, DE; Jason Mitchell and his companion, Gale of Chestertown, MD; and Jodie Banks of Frankford, DE; several cherished grandchildren; dear friends Brice and Angie Long of Princess Anne, MD, JB and Annie Franklin of Millsboro, DE and their daughters; and his beloved dog, Cooper.

Rich's warmth, humor, and big heart touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all.

A viewing will be held from 1-2 PM on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher St., Frankford, DE 19945, where the funeral service will begin at 2 PM. Interment will follow at Prince George's Cemetery in Dagsboro, DE.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Rich's name to the Brandywine Valley SPCA by visiting https://bvspca.org/donate/donation-form