Biography: Phillip Eugene Richards, age 59, of Little Rock, died July 25, 2006. Phil was born in San Diego, California. He was a graduate of C. E. Byrd High school in Shreveport, Louisiana and Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he received his B.A. degree in English. He later received a Masters in Communications from Webster College. He joined the United States Air Force in 1969 retiring at the rank of Major in 1989. During his time of service he was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base, Bossier City, Louisiana where he was the Chief of Public Affairs for the 2nd Bomb Wing, he also served as Launch Commander with the Titan Missile Program at Little Rock Air Force Base. After retirement Phil taught English at Byrd High School in Shreveport. After moving to Little Rock he was in sales at Riverside Acura. Fondly known as Papa by his grandchildren, Phil always put the needs of others before himself. He was a Hurrican Katrina volunteer with the Southern Baptist Association and a mission leader in Mexico. He was a Deacon and taught Sunday school. He was a wonderful Christian husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Kathy Culpepper Richards of Little Rock, one son Jeffrey M. Richards and wife Bridget of Zachary, Louisiana, one daughter Emily R. Osteen and husband Jonathan of Charlottesville, Virginia, one sister Patricia Sistrunk and husband David of Shreveport, Louisiana, two grandchildren, Braedyn and Samuel Richards. There will be a visitation Thursday evening from 5 to 7pm followed by a funeral service at 10am at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church officiated by Drs. Bruce Chesser and Paul Sanders. Memorials should be sent to Geyer Springs First Baptist Church.
I didn't know about the past or even recent health battles he had which is further testament to his strength and the incredible attitude he had throughout his life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family as they mourn his loss.