After a valiant and courageous battle for life, and surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, Richard Charles Campbell passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, April 5, at Paoli Hospital. He was 85 years old.
Richard was a wonderful husband, a devoted father and grandfather, a humble and hardworking man, and someone who found joy and peace in nature and the simple blessings of life.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Richard was the only child of the late George and Jean Campbell of Weirton, West Virginia. Known affectionately throughout his life as Dick, Rich, or “Tank” (a nickname earned during his military service), Richard enjoyed an active and fulfilling youth. He played sports, helped on his parents’ farm, and shared many cherished memories with his late cousin Barry. A talented athlete, Richard played varsity football at Weir High School and was a proud member of the West Virginia Class AA state championship football team.
Richard continued his education at West Virginia University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. After graduation, he worked briefly in Charleston, West Virginia, and later at a local bank before joining the U.S. Army Reserves. He completed basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and served honorably from 1963 to 1969. During the Vietnam War, Richard was always willing and ready to serve, coming close to being called to active duty on two occasions. He was later honorably discharged, a distinction he carried with quiet pride.
Following his military service, Richard began a long and dedicated career with United Airlines. Starting as a reservations agent, he later worked in customer service at Washington National Airport (now Reagan International Airport). It was there that he met the love of his life, Mrs. Judy Campbell, née Campbell. Richard and Judy were married on December 19, 1970, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, devotion, and mutual support.
In 1974, Richard was promoted to Food Service Supervisor with United Airlines and eventually became an Operations Manager in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He remained with the airline until the closure of its kitchens due to economic conditions, later transferring to the United Airlines operations center at Philadelphia International Airport. Richard retired in July of 2000 after years of loyal and dependable service.
In November 2001, Richard suffered a heart attack. His recovery took more than a year and was made possible through the unwavering love and care of his wife Judy, along with the dedication of his medical team. Never one to sit still for long, Richard returned to work in 2003 at Bellevue State Park as a grounds maintenance worker. He deeply enjoyed working alongside fellow retirees and being immersed in the beauty of the outdoors—a setting that perfectly matched his love of nature.
Richard loved gardening, hunting, and fishing, but above all, he treasured his family. He was profoundly grateful for his wife Judy and was a loving father to his children, Keith (Liz) and Kimberlee. He took great pride and joy in his grandchildren: Sarah, Emma, Molly, Seth, Ryan, Abby, and Lucy.
Richard will be remembered for his humility, strong work ethic, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family. His life was one marked by service, quiet strength, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Condolences
Thank You
Your online condolence will appear once approved by our site administrator.