Obituary of Richard Gregory Alaman

Celebration of Life

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course; I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. – 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Richard Gregory Alaman was born September 7, 1954 in Fort Worth, Texas. He grew up in the East Oak Cliff area of Dallas, graduating from Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in 1973.

Ricky, as affectionately called by his family during his younger years, was an adventurous soul who enjoyed trying uncommon activities like riding motorcycles and dirt bikes, and even tried his hand as an amateur race car driver. A deeply rooted fascination with anything related to cars, he gravitated to jobs that allowed him to be behind – or under – the wheels of various kinds of vehicles. He prided himself on being a self-taught mechanic and even later got his kicks by driving a tow truck.

Richard was known for his big crooked smile, booming baritone voice, and deep-bellied laugh. He frequently had an outrageous story to tell that would leave his listeners leaning in and eagerly awaiting the inevitable, and often unrefined punchline. He never met a stranger and would talk to almost anyone who would listen. He crafted sometimes unforgiving nicknames, especially for loved ones, as his way of letting you know he cared.

He was a dependable and dedicated friend who often sacrificed his own health and safety to help someone in need. He loved his family and always looked forward to gatherings that offered the opportunity for him to entertain us with his recollections of the past and predictions for the future. Richard was a good man, who said what he meant and meant what he said. He had few regrets as he lived his life honestly as himself.

Richard leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Barbara Nell of 38 years. He will be missed by his daughters Leslie (Dwane) Edwards, and Crystal Alaman; son Rev. Robert L. Alaman; grandsons Hunter and Haiden Edwards; 5 siblings, and a host of other relatives and friends.