Richard Akridge, Jr.

Rev. Paul Richard Akridge, Jr., 62, passed away on February 8, 2025, at his home in Lampasas, Texas after many years of battling illness.  He was born on September 28, 1962, in Ashburn, Georgia to Paul and Anne (Pate) Akridge.

A graveside service will be held at School Creek Cemetery on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 3 pm.

Richard grew up in a number of small towns in Georgia and although he attended five different high schools he still managed to impress college football scouts with his skill on the defensive line.  He graduated from West Georgia University and finished his education with a master's degree some years later.

Richard, a great man of faith, dedicated 30 years to education as a coach and teacher, shaping the lives of countless students.  Notably, he played a key role in helping establish the football program at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and was recognized in *Who's Who of American Teachers* in 2004.  In addition to his work in education, he contributed as a sports photographer for the Lampasas Dispatch Record, capturing moments that celebrated athletic achievements.  He also pursued his passion for the outdoors as a professional angler, a hunting and fishing guide and as a taxidermist.

Richard married Melissa Kay Gomez in 2006 in Belton, Texas.  They were happily married for 19 years.  Beyond his professional life, Richard was a talented artist who enjoyed painting with acrylics and woodworking.  His creativity and craftsmanship were evident in his works.  He was also a licensed minister through School Creek Baptist Church.  As his health declined, he found new ways to serve others by sharing messages of faith and encouragement through social media, reaching former students, fellow educators, and anyone in need of support.

Richard's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched as a mentor, educator, artist, and minister.  May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

Richard was preceded in death by his sister, Lisa Kirby, his paternal grandparents, Edward and Ola Akridge, and his maternal grandparents, Cecil and Ernestine Pate.

Richard is survived by his spouse, Melissa of Austin, TX; his daughter; his son, Trey Akridge of Austin, TX; his sister, Beth (Charles) Herrin of Crestview, FL; his parents, Paul and Diane Akridge of Augusta, GA; his mother, Anne Grosse of Crestview, FL and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the nonprofit where he volunteered his computer skills, Forgotten Felines of Texas, forgottenfelinestx.org