Richard W. Ecott

Richard W. Ecott,73, of Fruitland Park, Florida and formerly from Miami, Florida passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025 surrounded by his family. Richard was born on October 2, 1951 and graduated from Miami Norland High School. After graduating, he entered the Police Academy then joined the Miami Dade County Police Department where he served with distinguished merit for 28 years. Throughout his service he was recognized with numerous awards. Richard was a 32nd Degree Mason and member of Scottish Rite Valley of Ocala. He was Past Master of Leesburg Lodge # 58.
In his youth, Richard developed an interest in the sport of Judo where he attained the rank of 3rd degree Brown Belt. Those early years were also filled with all activities of life on and near the water including boating, fishing, water skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving the reefs of South Florida. Richard also has a Master Captains License.
Following his retirement, Richard moved to Central Florida to live in his home on Lake Griffin. He continued his love of water activities, as well as, raising bees branded "Uncle Bobo's Raw Honey" and kept chickens.
Richard was generous with his time and service spending many years volunteering at the Leesburg food bank, Lake Griffin State Park and Masonic events.
Richard was preceded in death by his father Walter Ecott and brother-in-law, David Dukes. He is survived by his mother, Janet Ecott of the Villages, FL; brother, Christopher Ecott (Debbie) of Port St Lucie, FL; sister, Juliet Dukes of Wildwood, FL; daughter, Nicole Martinez; granddaughter Mila; daughter, Nikki Marie Valera; granddaughter Chastity; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins all in South and West Florida.
This beloved man was charming, witty, kind, generous, empathetic and a blessing to all who knew him. His memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Memorial Service will be 1:00 PM Saturday April 26, 2025 at Beyers Funeral Home in Lady Lake, Florida