Richard was born in Sparta, Georgia. While an infant his family moved to Athens where he spent his formative years. During this time, Richard responded to the invitation for salvation at East Athens Baptist Church, but after years of doubts and questions he confirmed his salvation as a teenager. As an adolescent his family then moved to Sandersville where they were active members of Sisters Baptist Church and where he graduated from Washington County High School. During this time, Richard received his call to the gospel ministry.
Upon graduating high school, Richard attended Georgia College (now Georgia College and State University) graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics. Following completion of his degree, he enrolled at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas. He attended Sagamore Hills Baptist Church where he gained valuable ministry insights. He graduated with a Master of Church Music Degree with a concentration in piano.
Richard's calling has been affirmed in several churches, the first being Southside Baptist Church in Fort Pierce, Florida. It was at this church Richard would meet his first wife, Donna Finger. They were wed on January 21, 1983 and celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary before her untimely death on October 1, 2008.
With great joy, Richard found love again when he met Jani Taylor a few years later while participating in the Jefferson Community Theater. After dating for several years, Richard and Jani were married on January, 18, 2019. In addition to becoming husband to a wonderful women, Richard also became a father to 4 great adult children and 5 marvelous grandchildren who call him, Opa.
Before coming to FBC Jefferson, Richard served at FBC Trion, Georgia and Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Lavonia, GA, as well as an interim position at Sisters Baptist Church, Sandersville, GA and a part-time ministry at Hill Street Baptist Church, Toccoa, GA Richard is an active member of the Sons of Jubal, the men's choral group affiliated with the Georgia Baptist Convention.