Richard F. Carlson, age 81, passed away at his home in Savannah, Ga., on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021.
Dick was born on Nov. 6, 1939 in Austin, Texas, to Gilbert Frank Carlson and Birdie Elaine (Wilt) Carlson.
After graduating from Texas Tech University, with an undergraduate degree in business, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served in several locations but was stationed specifically on the USS Essex during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Dick then completed his education with an MBA at The University of Dallas.
Dick worked for the company A.S. Hanson in Dallas, Texas, and was offered a position with the company as head of human resources and relocated to its headquarters in Chicago, Ill. During his tenure at the company, he served on the board of directors before taking an early retirement. Dick and his partner, Tim Hargus of Dallas, Texas, then moved to Savannah, Ga., where they purchased several properties.
Dick was well known for his love of animals and was on the board of the Humane Society of Savannah, as well as having been a founding member of Friends of Animals of the Coastal Empire.
Dick and Tim found a wonderful summer home in New Hope, Pa., called Rolling Green Farm, circa 1748, where Dick spent his summers and became an intricate and beloved part of the New Hope community. He supported many local organizations, including the Bucks County SPCA. He was named Citizen of the Year by the Solebury Township Historical Society for all of his contributions, through donations and volunteering, made to local nonprofit organizations.
Dick passed away peacefully at home, with his cat Maggie in his arms.
Dick is survived by Tim Hargus, currently of Savannah, Ga.; Cynthia Elliott Carlson of Hilton Head, S.C.; niece Susan Carlson Landers; nephew Mark Elliott Carlson, both of Atlanta, Ga.; and first cousin Peggy Moore of Dallas, Texas.
He was proceeded by his brother, Don G. Carlson.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that remembrances be made to the Humane Society for Greater Savannah, 7215 Sallie Mood Drive, Savannah, Georgia 31406 or to One Love Animal Rescue, Inc. 463 Johnny Mercer Blvd, Ste B7 #142, Savannah, GA 31410.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
