Richard Downes

Richard Downes, 46, of Russellville, Arkansas, died Wednesday, September 9, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The son of Thomas Downes and Susan Scott , Richard was born January 11, 1980, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He made Russellville his home and became a familiar and valued part of the community through both his professional life and his involvement with others.

Richard possessed a natural ability to connect with people. An exceptional professional salesman, he combined an outgoing personality with a genuine interest in those he met. He understood that successful relationships were built on trust, conversation, and treating people well. Those qualities served him throughout his career and helped turn customers and professional acquaintances into lasting friendships.

Richard also believed in being involved in the community he called home. As a member of the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce Red Coat Ambassadors, he enjoyed supporting local businesses, welcoming others, and participating in the life of the Russellville community.

Sports were one of Richard’s great passions. He loved following both high school and college athletics and could always appreciate a good game, a talented player, or a memorable season. His enthusiasm for sports extended to collecting sports cards, a hobby that allowed him to enjoy the history, personalities, and memories associated with the games he loved.

But beyond work, sports, and community involvement, Richard found some of his greatest happiness simply spending time with those who were special to him. He treasured his time with Jackson, Rylee Jo, and Briley, and the moments they shared held a special place in his heart. His beloved fur babies were also very much a part of his family and brought him companionship, comfort, and plenty of happiness.

Richard will be remembered for his ability to talk with people, his enthusiasm for the things he enjoyed, and the relationships he built along the way. Whether discussing sports, adding another card to his collection, visiting with someone through his work, participating in a community event, or simply spending time with the people and pets he loved, Richard embraced the connections that made life meaningful.

He is survived by his mother, Susan Kidd of Russellville; his father and stepmother, Thomas and Crysti Downes of Branson, MO; his fiancée, Shelly Beck of Russellville; his brothers, Nathan, Colby, Jay and Joey; his sisters, Carly and Cara and other relatives, friends, colleagues, and members of the community whose lives were touched by his friendship.

A funeral service celebrating Richard’s life will be held at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Humphrey Funeral Chapel in Russellville. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home, immediately preceding the service.

A private committal service will be held at the Chapel of Light at the J. Herman Humphrey Dignity Cremation Center, under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service.

Richard’s life was far too brief, but the measure of a life is found in more than the number of its years. It is found in the relationships formed, the laughter shared, the people loved, and the memories left behind. For Richard’s family and friends, those memories will remain a lasting reminder of a life that mattered and a man who will be deeply missed.

The internet obituary and online guestbook are available at HumphreyFuneral.com.