Biography:

Richard Anthony Short, age 81, passed away on October 21, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born on October 3, 1945, in Galveston, Texas.

Richard was a loving husband, a dad, and Papa to his grandchildren. He shared more than 51 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Laurie, who preceded him in death just three months earlier. Together, they shared a home, a family, and a lifetime of memories.

A standout football player in high school, Richard carried his love of sports into his years as a father, coaching his children’s football and soccer teams when they were young. In later years, he enjoyed watching sports of all kinds and taking his turn as an armchair quarterback, offering his own opinions on the plays and coaching decisions.

Over the years, Richard worked in the Sheriff’s Office, became a Master Plumber, owned and operated Anthony’s Plumbing, and later worked for Dent Doctor. He enjoyed duck hunting, collecting coins and baseball cards, and trips to the casino with his wife and partner in crime, Laurie.

Among his family, Richard was known as Dad and Papa. These were the names that connected him to the generations of family who were part of his life.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Laurie McKinney Short; his father, Norman H. Short; his mother, Madeline Sanne Short; and his sisters, Barbara Lynn Short McCord and Sandra Lynn Short Farina.

He is survived by his children, Anthony Short, Missy Mosley, Jennifer Wolford, Powell Hazzard, Ginna Murray, and Curtis Hazzard; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His family takes comfort in knowing that Richard and Laurie are together again. He will be remembered and missed.  Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com