Richard Frank Jennings

Richard "Dick" Jennings, born on March 30, 1939, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, passed away peacefully in his home on February 19, 2025. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose contributions to his family will be remembered fondly.

Dick began his career at Johns Mansville, Inc. in West Virginia, where he dedicated 25 years working in every part of the plant. His hard work and determination led him to become a plant manager in McPherson, Kansas, before relocating to Tyler, Texas. Throughout his career, he held various managerial roles and concluded his journey as a production manager for Swarco in Mexia, Texas, where he retired.

Dick attended Parkersburg High School and later earned his B.S. in Industrial Engineering from West Virginia University. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dick was an avid fan of Mountaineer football and basketball. His enthusiasm for sports was well-known, especially in Waco, Texas, where he and Sue often enjoyed attending games led by renowned head coach Kim Mulkey. Dick shared his love for music by singing in the church choir at Woodway First United Methodist Church alongside Sue and other members.

An individual with an eye for beauty, Dick received four "Yard of the Month" awards for his landscaping prowess. He embraced creativity and found joy in painting with pastels, nurturing a passion for the arts. He also enjoyed tennis and golf as well as the outdoors in the form of fishing.

Family vacations were particularly meaningful to Dick, with family reunions at the beach ranking among his favorite memories. These cherished times brought loved ones together, creating bonds that will remain.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Sue Rudisill Jennings; daughters, Beth and Chuck Powell of Pasco, Washington, and Kate and Clint of Montgomery, Texas; as well as grandchildren Jack Powell of Spokane, Washington, Mason Powell of Montgomery, Texas, and Blake Powell of College Station, Texas. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law and husband, Louise and Ron Summers; sister-in-law Dorothy Halstead; sister-in-law Joane Rudisill; and many nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives he touched throughout his journey.

He is predeceased by his parents, Frank Burton Jennings and Augusta Geraldine Jennings, as well as his brothers-in-law, Bob Halstead and Grant Rudisill.

Dick will be fondly remembered for his dedication to family and love of life. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Woodway First United Methodist Church or The Humane Society.