Richard J. "Dick" Richards

Richard J. "Dick" Richards, age 80, of Marion, began dancing in heaven on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Marion General Hospital following an extended illness.
On February 4, 1945, Richard was born in Marion, Ohio, the youngest of three children of the late Harold John Richards and Virginia Ann (Cicero) Richards. He was a proud graduate of Marion Catholic High School, Class of 1963, where he served at captain of the football team that finished the season with a record of 6–2-1. This marked that start of a 4 year run which resulted in state championships in 1965 and 1966.
A man who believed in the value of hard work, Dick held his first job as an usher at the Marion Palace Theatre and his last as a greeter at Walmart-roles that reflected his lifelong love for people. Over his 65-plus years of employment, he worked at countless places, including Tecumseh Products and Purex (1980–1999), ran his own business, Richard's Lawncare, and served as the beloved custodian at Silver Street Schools.
It was during his years at Purex, Dick met the love of his life and soulmate, Betty Luster at a company Christmas party on December 27,1980. Their connection was instant and lasting. Nearly two years later on October 30, 1982, they were married and began a beautiful journey together that would span 43 wonderful years filled with laughter, devotion and unwavering love.
In 1971, Dick proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force to serve his country during the Vietnam War. He served as a fireman and was stationed at Grissom Air Force Base in Peru, Indiana.
Faith was central to Dick's life. He was a lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Marion and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a devoted Ohio State Buckeye fan-so much so that he dedicated an entire room in his home to the Scarlet and Gray. When he wasn't cheering on the Buckeyes, Dick could be found on the golf course at Kings Mill, where he was a member for most of his life, or playing cards-especially poker-with his friends and family.
Music was always in Dick's heart. Whether singing along to one of his favorite oldies or showing off his dance moves, he brought joy wherever he went. A natural entertainer and jokester, he delighted everyone with his famous Donald Duck impression-always finding a way to make others laugh and feel loved.
Above all, Dick was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and even great-great-grandfather. His family was his world, and his greatest joy came from spending time with his grandbabies, who were truly the apples of his eye.
Dick will be remembered for his warm smile, playful spirit, and the love he shared so freely with everyone he met. His legacy of laughter, faith, and family will continue to shine through all those blessed to have known him.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Betty Richards of Marion; three children: Shelly (Ken) Dason of Marion, David Richards of Marion, and Dottie (Ian) Kerr of Columbus; 5 grandchildren: Courtney (Mike) Barnett, Caitlin (Joe) Thompson, Chase Richards Seipel, Andy Hastings, and Emily Steele; 9 great-grandchildren: Maddie (Colton) Hoover, Alexis (Jevin) Davis, Jordyn, Neveah, Isiah, and Makenah Barnett, and Gracyn, Warren, and Owen Thompson; two great-great-grandchildren: Easton Lowry and Ellie Kay Hoover, and one more on the way; three sisters-in-law: Joan Richards, Sue (Glenn) Schwamberger, and Florence (Pat) Johnson; and several nieces and nephews.
Including his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his grandson, Dakotah Barnett; both siblings: Patricia Corbin and Ted Richards; and a brother-in-law, Mike Luster.
His family will greet friends from 4 – 7 pm on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Snyder Funeral Homes, GUNDER/HALL Chapel, 347 W. Center St., Marion. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at St. Mary Church, 251 N. Main St., Marion, with Father Edward Shikina officiating. For those who are unable to attend his Mass, you are welcome to watch via livestream through the funeral home's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/GunderHallSFH), which will start approximately 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the Mass. Burial with military honors provided by the Marion County United Veterans Council will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Marion.
Dick would want anyone attending visiting hours on Wednesday to wear your favorite OSU attire.
Memorial contributions may be made to either St. Mary Catholic Church or St. Mary Catholic Schools, 251 N. Main St., Marion, OH 43302.
On behalf of his family, they would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank you" to all of the wonderful staff at Marion General Hospital, Chaplain Doug Ford, everyone at Dr. Oza's office including Kelly, Rakay, Paige and Kim, and to Father Edward Shikina.
Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion are honored to serve Dick's family and your favorite memories and condolences may be shared with them via www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.