Richard Southworth

1943 - 2025

Richard Southworth, 82, passed away on December 29, 2025, in Henrico, VA. Richard was born on May 20, 1943 to Sally "Lorena" Norvell and Fred Bayliss. Lorena later married Lewis Samuel Southworth who adopted him and was an involved parent and, later, grandparent to Richard's children and grandchildren. Richard was a lifelong learner and dedicated public servant. He graduated from Patrick Henry High School before earning degrees from Virginia Commonwealth and Duquesne Universities.

Richard served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he embarked on a career with the Virginia State Police. After retiring from law enforcement, he continued to serve others as an administrator for a Christian retreat center and later as an insurance fraud investigator.

Richard attended First Baptist Church in Richmond, VA where he gratefully found a meaningful study and discussion group.

Richard was preceded in death by a half sister, Sallye Clark whom he was sad not to have met. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Winnie Mears Southworth. He is survived by his three children: Teresa Parr, Michelle Southworth, and Mark Southworth; and their families: Rachel Parr, Emma Parr, Daniel Parr, Rhiannon Lutz, and Wesley Layne.

A memorial service will be held in the spring at an outdoor location in accordance with Richard's wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Trevor Project, Ayuda or ChildSavers in Richard's memory. May his memory inspire those who knew him to live their lives in service and acceptance of and support to others.