Richard E. Stinson Sr.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 428 E. Main Street, Columbus, OH 43215

Interment: Friday, July 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Greenlawn Cemetery

Obituary for Deacon Richard E. Stinson Sr.

February 22, 1929 – July 7, 2025

"Well done, good and faithful servant…" - Matthew 25:23

Deacon Richard E. Stinson Sr. was born on February 22, 1929, in Shreveport, Louisiana to William and Annie Stinson. He was the second youngest of ten children raised in a home rooted in Southern strength, deep faith, and enduring family values. After a long and faithful life marked by humility, perseverance, service, and love, Richard entered into eternal rest on July 7, 2025, at The Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by the love and care of his devoted family.

At just 17 years old, Richard enlisted in the United States Air Force and served with honor from 1946 to 1950. He was trained and certified as an Airborne Radio Operator, mastering advanced communication and technical systems while stationed both at home and abroad. Following his military service, Richard embarked on a distinguished federal civilian career and dedicated 44 years of invaluable service. Beginning as a Clerk Typist, he rose through the ranks with determination and excellence, eventually becoming a GS-15 Management Analyst. He served at the Defense Construction Supply Center (DCSC) and Defense Property Disposal Service (DPDS), contributing to national-level projects and policy. His work included manpower studies across 22 states, federal cost-saving initiatives, high-level briefings to military leadership, and the supervision of teams of up to 40 employees. Richard's brilliance in logistics, policy design, and performance systems earned him over a dozen commendations, honors, awards and the respect of leaders across federal and military departments.

Richard was a lifelong learner who pursued academic and professional growth with tenacity. He was an avid reader, and you could tell by his overflowing bookshelf that his love for knowledge never faded. He studied Political Science at Southern University and completed further coursework at The Ohio State University, Spaulding Business College, and the U.S. Armed Forces Institute. He also earned numerous certifications in leadership, logistics, public speaking, and data systems, continuing to expand his knowledge well into his later years.

Richard's greatest roles were those rooted in faith, family, and moral character. Richard's story is one of perseverance and growth. He leaned into God's guidance and evolved into a God fearing man whose life stood as a living testimony to redemption and transformation. A devoted husband to the late Constance Stinson, whom he married on September 22, 1949, he built a home centered on prayer, commitment, and love. Together, they raised a family guided by spiritual strength, accountability, and unwavering support. He worked multiple jobs to ensure his children were cared for, provided for, and prepared for the world.

For over 65 years, Richard served as a faithful and influential member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio. He held the role of Chairman of the Deacon Board, taught Sunday School, sang in the Male Chorus, an original member of the Mass Choir, a brief tenure as a trustee and participated in countless church committees. He mentored youth, visited the sick, supported the elderly, and helped guide church leadership through times of change and growth. His ministry reached far and wide. He lived out God's teachings daily, without seeking credit or recognition. His faith-driven character and leadership solidifed him as a pillar of the church.

Outside of his faith and career, Richard took joy in the simple things: tending to his beloved garden, where he grew tomatoes, cucumbers, collard greens, and many more plants that he proudly shared with his neighbors. His lawn was always immaculate because he didn't let anyone else touch it. He loved planting tree after tree. He enjoyed watching his favorite shows like classic westerns, Little House on the Prairie, Martin and cheering on the Cincinnati Reds. He had a sweet tooth and indulged in his favorite treats like donuts, cookies and candy. He was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for his family. His potato salad was gold medal worthy.

He cherished his family traditions. His joy in giving made the holiday time magical. He created a master Christmas list each year, pages long for all of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends; it was well thought out in detail from sizes, colors, and style. He was also known for his sharp wit and brutal honesty, delivered with a straight face and a twinkle of humor that left everyone laughing. He said what others wouldn't, but always with sincerity and truth. And when he stepped out, he did so with pride. His outfits were always crisp and coordinated, complete with his signature fedora. He believed in presenting himself with dignity because he lived with it every day. He treated himself with respect and this reached in how he treated everyone else.

Richard E. Stinson was the kind of man whose presence didn't have to be announced; it was felt. He was deeply spiritual yet intensely practical praying for others by name. He was steady without show, strong without noise, and wise without ego. He didn't lead with his voice; he led with his life. Every prayer he wrote, every note he jotted, every garden row he tended, every shirt he pressed, spoke to the discipline, humility, and reverence that defined him. He lived by order, but never forgot grace. He loved deeply, but never loudly. He gave without keeping score and taught without needing credit. His integrity was never performative, it was woven into his habits, his humor, his kindness, and his work. In a world that often rushes to be seen, Richard moved slowly, intentionally, and faithfully. In doing so, he left behind a legacy not just of what he accomplished, but of how he carried himself through it all.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Constance Stinson; his daughter, Louise Walker; his son, Jon Lamont Stinson; his grandson, Kenny Stinson; and his siblings: John, James, Annie Mae, Cager, William Ardis, Ruth, Marion, Dorothy, and Dolores.

He is lovingly survived by his children: James Stinson, Richard Stinson Jr., Lorraine Stinson, Lewgean Davidson (Percy), Jeffrey Stinson (Crystal), Mark Stinson, and Lynette Collins (Maurice); and by his cherished grandchildren: Vincent, Amar, Latoya, Wesley, Kelley, Lakitia, Ebony, Courtney, Geoffrey, Julius, Jasmin, Terrone, Markel, Chaney, Marquis, Brooklyn, Mackenzie, Mark Jr., Alexis, and Nate. He is also survived by a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, church family, extended relatives, and lifelong friends who loved and respected him deeply.

In his final days, Richard was surrounded by constant care and deep love, thanks to the family's "Dream Team" who ensured he was honored, protected, and never alone. Though his physical presence has departed, the spirit, lessons, and example of Deacon Richard E. Stinson Sr. will continue to bless generations to come.

Richard finished his race with dignity. In his final moments, his strength and warm spirit embraced those tending to him as he smiled and said " I'm Alright. " He lived faithfully and fully. And now, he rests peacefully in the eternal embrace of his Savior.

To all who loved him, we echo the words of 2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness..."

Psalm 103:1–5 (KJV)

Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Rest well Richard, your work here was not only done it was done exceptionally.

Good Morning. Good Afternoon. And Good Night, My Love.