Richard Barry Solomon

Reverend Richard B. Solomon-affectionately known to most as Pastor Rick or Pastor Harmless-completed his earthly mission and entered the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 11, 2025. A devoted servant, teacher, and shepherd, Pastor Rick's life was a testimony of unwavering faith, compassion, and commitment to the Gospel.

Ordained and licensed by Loving Hearts Ministry in 2001, Pastor Rick served in full-time ministry for over two decades. He was a member of the pastoral staff for three churches and served as Senior Pastor of two congregations in Windsor, New York, from 2006 to 2010. His calling carried him across the state of Texas, where he ministered faithfully to inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and extended beyond borders during ministry trips to Mexico City.

Pastor Rick's walk of faith began long before his ordination. A graduate of the Haven Bible School through Freedom Christian Fellowship in 2000, he began his church service in the Ministry of Helps, rising through roles as usher, head usher, and ultimately head of security. His calm strength and protective nature reflected his background in military and law enforcement service.

Richard Barry Solomon was born in Brookline, Massachusetts and grew up in East Northport, New York. He graduated from Commack High School North in 1971.

From 1972 to 1981, Pastor Rick served honorably in U.S. Navy Communications and Special Operations, RM2, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Scuba Diver. He received the following decorations: National Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Second Good Conduct Medal.

Afterward, he graduated from the Council of Government Police Academy in Grand Prairie, Texas in 1981, and from both the Mattman School of Executive Protection and Executive Security International in 1996. His professional path included work with the Richardson Police Department from 1981 to 1986, and his skills later positioned him as a designated armor bearer and personal security assistant to world evangelist Benny Hinn.

Throughout his ministry, Pastor Rick's heart for young people was unmistakable. He served as Youth Church Advisor for Hope Community Church in Colleyville, Texas, under Pastor Paul Cole from 2001 to 2003, and later as Associate Pastor at First Love Return Ministries/Freedom Family Church in Lake Worth, Texas, under Pastor Andy Matthews from 2003 to 2006. There, as Head Counselor, he worked extensively in prison and youth ministries, teaching weekly classes and ministering to youth offenders at the Kimbo Road Youth Correctional Facility in Tarrant County. His mission was to reconcile young people to God, bring restoration to their families, and redirect their paths toward hope and purpose.

In 2010, Pastor Rick moved to Belton, Texas, joining the staff of Agape Christian Center under the pastorship of Dr. John Pellizzari. There, he served as Chancellor of the Agape Bible College, where he coordinated curriculum, guided teachers, and helped train the next generation of ministry leaders.

Prior to a well-deserved retirement, Pastor Rick worked as member of the ministry team of Texas churches in Temple, Dawson, and Hubbard.

Those who knew Pastor Rick will remember his compassion, humor, humility, and his steadfast belief in second chances. Whether behind a pulpit, inside a correctional facility, or simply talking one-on-one, he carried the light of Christ wherever he went. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and restoration that continues in the countless lives he touched. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy continues in the countless lives he touched through faith, teaching, and unconditional love.

A Celebration of Life Service honoring Reverend Richard B. Solomon will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at The Pavilion at Fairview Cemetery in Hubbard, Texas.

Pastor Rick's earthly work is done, but his influence continues through the many lives he touched, mentored, and inspired. His legacy is one of faith, courage, and unwavering compassion. Pastor Rick believed that no one is too far gone for the grace of God. May his life's work continue to bear fruit, through all who knew and loved him.