Richard Phillip Hartcraft, 57, of Texarkana, Texas, passed away on March 2,
2025, at a Dallas hospital after a courageous battle with cancer and liver
failure.
Richard was preceded in death by his sister, Monica Sickels, his
grandparents, and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by his loving
wife, Kippie, and their cherished son, Parker; his parents, Richard and
Sandy Hartcraft; his in-laws, Jerry and Bettie Barnwell; his brother-in-law
and sister-in-law, Rob and Jackie Barnwell; and his beloved nieces and
nephews: Meagan Cathey (James), Kacie Meyer (Matthew), Cody Cathey (Kim),
Billy Sickels, and Briley Barnwell (Rachael). He was also a proud
great-uncle to Avery Cathey, James and Brayden Niederhauser, Scout and
Blaire Meyer, and Andrew and Luke Barnwell. Richard leaves behind many dear
cousins, his TUGs family, and a host of friends, coworkers, customers,
classmates, and the young adults he once had the privilege of coaching in
youth sports. He was also crazy about his two chocolate labs, Tucker and
Tate.
Born on September 17, 1967, in Temple, Texas, Richard moved frequently
during his childhood before settling in Mansfield, Texas, in junior high.
He graduated from Mansfield High School, proud to be part of the class of
1986. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine
Corps, where he served with honor for eight years as both an active-duty
Marine and a reservist.
In December of 1988, Richard met the love of his life, Kippie. They married
in July 1992 and spent over 32 years building a life filled with laughter,
adventure, and unwavering devotion. Richard absolutely adored Kippie, and
she adored him just as deeply. Their love was evident in every look, every
gesture, and every moment they shared. They were each other's greatest
supporters and best friends.
In 1996, they welcomed their greatest blessing, a beautiful baby boy named
Parker. There was nothing in this world that Richard loved more than
Parker. From the moment he was born, Richard dedicated his life to being
the best father he could be. He spent countless years coaching Parker's
teams and later traveled across the country following him, proudly cheering
him on in sports, music, and his time with the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band at
Texas A&M University. If Parker was there, Richard wanted to be in the
stands watching him, and he rarely missed a moment over the past 28 years.
One of Richard's greatest joys was coaching youth baseball and football,
especially when Parker was on the field. Known as Coach Richard, he was
tough but compassionate, always emphasizing proper fundamentals. He was
deeply loved by his players and their families, forming lifelong bonds with
many of them. He took great pride in running into former players around
town and hearing the familiar call of "Hey, Coach Richard!"
Richard was a hardworking and dedicated entrepreneur. After years as a
transportation broker, he founded Lone Star Graphics in Nash, Texas, which
he owned and operated for over 20 years. His customers became more than
clients - they became friends. Even after selling the business in June 2024
due to his health, Richard remained committed to working to ensure a smooth
transition for the new owners.
A celebration of a life well-lived will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025,
at Radiant Church, 2729 New Boston Road, Unit 124, Texarkana, Texas. The
family will welcome visitors from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., with a service
beginning at 2:00 p.m., officiated by his dear friend, new business owner,
and second "son," Pastor Kevion Johnson. In Richard's spirit, please "come
casual" and wear his favorite color, purple.
Richard was a proud supporter of organ donation. Though his own body was
too sick to donate, he would be honored if others would consider
registering as donors.
In keeping with his adventurous spirit, Richard wished to be cremated, and
for his ashes to be spread far and wide.