Richard Calvin Hewatt

Richard Calvin Hewatt, 66, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026.

Richard, affectionately known to many as “Ricky Bobby” aka”Big Daddy”, was a devoted husband, loving father, proud Pawpaw, brother, uncle, and extraordinary friend to many. He was known for his larger-than-life personality, his infectious smile, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. Wherever he went, people were naturally drawn to him, and it never took long for strangers to become friends.

Richard was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on May 5, 1959. He was the son of Richard Fleming Hewatt Jr. and Barbara Arlene Milam Hewatt. He was a 1978 graduate of Tucker High School and continued his education at Middle Georgia College and Georgia State University. He went on to build a distinguished career in the transportation industry, serving as President of Checker Cab Company. A respected leader among his peers, he was a longtime member and past president of the Transportation Limousine Paratransit Association (TLPA), where he helped shape and strengthen the industry he cared so deeply about. Richard also served on the Board of Directors for the Southeastern Railway Museum, reflecting both his commitment to community involvement and his appreciation for transportation history.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard was a man of many passions. He was a proud barbecue partner of “3 Taxi Guys,” a legendary pit-master whose skills around the smoker were matched only by his enthusiasm for bringing people together. Some of his happiest moments were spent riding motorcycles with his high school friends, creating memories that lasted a lifetime. Their most recent trip took them riding through the Grand Canyon. He was also a member of the band Downtown Executives, never passing up an opportunity to entertain — especially if it meant performing his now-legendary “swan dance.” Richard was a creative visionary who never had patience for anything ordinary or boring. He lived boldly, led generously, and mentored anyone who sought his guidance — whether in the cab business, at the barbecue pit, or simply in life. His willingness to share his knowledge and encouragement left a lasting impact on countless people.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Kathryn Hewatt; his children, Lauren Hewatt, Richard (Lina) Hewatt II, and Tristan (Kelsey) Hewatt; his cherished grandchildren, Grayson, Annabelle, Callie, Cal, Blaze, and McKinleigh; his siblings, Paula Young, Dennis (Linda) Hewatt, Tim (Dolly) Hewatt, and Katherine Shamblen (fiancé, Danny Rymer); and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Fleming Hewatt Jr., and his mother, Barbara Arlene Hewatt.

He had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome and valued. To know Richard was truly to love him. His kindness, laughter, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

Richard embraced life to the fullest. He cherished every moment, friendship, and opportunity to create lasting memories with those he loved. His enthusiasm for life and his genuine care for others made him unforgettable.

Richard leaves behind a loving family and countless friends who will deeply miss his presence, his laughter, and the joy he brought into their lives. His memory will continue to live on in the many hearts he touched.

As Richard would say, “Work hard, play hard.”

Service Information

Friends and family are invited to attend a viewing on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ingram Funeral Home.

A funeral service celebrating Richard’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Ingram Funeral Home. We will be having a celebration of life following the service at the Hewatt’s residence.