Richard Hancel Pointer

Richard Hancel Pointer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on June 2, 2025, at the age of 84.
Born on August 2, 1940, in Niangua, Missouri, to Alva Eugene and Gertrude Pearl Pointer, Richard lived a life marked by faith, service, love, and laughter. A proud graduate of Central High School in Springfield, MO, he soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country with honor. During his military career, he was stationed in England and Turkey as part of the Security Service, and completed his service in San Angelo, Texas.
In December 1962, Richard married the love of his life, Sandra Glenn. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and fellowship. Following his military service, Richard worked as a Service Engineer with NCR, later retiring as a zone manager in 2000. Never one to sit still, he spent two more years giving back to his community by driving a school bus for Springfield Public Schools.
Richard was a devoted member of South Fremont Free Will Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as treasurer for over 50 years. His love for Jesus and the church was evident in every aspect of his life.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his sons: Allen Pointer (Jill), Michael Pointer (Renee) both of Nashville, TN, and daughter Amy Pointer of Springfield, MO; his grandchildren: Christen Caudill (Nate), Catherine Pointer, Brooks Pointer, Brett Pointer, and Jessica Pointer; and great-grandchildren Evalyn and Cooper Caudill.
Richard was a man who never met a stranger. He had a natural gift for conversation and could strike up a friendly chat with anyone, whether in a restaurant, store, or along the sidewalk. He found joy in weekly breakfast gatherings with friends, where the camaraderie and laughter were highlights of his week.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Alva and Pearl Pointer, and his sister, Phyllis Davis.
A family directed Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 29 at 3:00 PM at South Fremont Free Will Baptist Church, 4547 S Fremont Ave, Springfield, MO 65804.
Interment with military honors will follow on Monday, June 30 at 1:00 PM at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 S. Southwood Rd, Springfield, MO 65804.
Richard's life was a testament to faith, kindness, and connection. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to: South Fremont Free Will Baptist Church, 4547 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, MO 65804.
Care has been entrusted to Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, Ltd. DeGraffenreid-Wood Crematory.