COLUMBUS

Richard T. Leslie, 74, of Columbus went to his heavenly home at 12:58 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, at Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

Born Dec. 31, 1942, he was the son of Thomas and Edna Mae Vance Sturgeon, both of whom preceded him in death. He was raised by Robert E. and Edna Mae Leslie, who adopted him as a son on his 21st birthday. On June 20, 1964, in Columbus, he married Betty L. Guthrie, who survives.

He graduated from Columbus High School in 1960. He loved people and made sure his career goals encompassed that. He worked for Rumpke of Indiana for 18 years as a sales retention specialist and had planned to retire April 1.

Richard enjoyed people, auto racing, cars, auctions, his family and his beloved dog, Bella. 

He devoted his life to his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and everyone he encountered. He was a loving father.

Other survivors include his children, LeaKay Leslie (Mike Snyder) Fields of Auburn and Richard Christopher (Amberley) Leslie of Columbus; his loving grandchildren, Dalton Leslie, Chase Leslie, Cierra Snyder and Adam Snyder; and great-grandchildren, Kylye Snyder and Jackson Naylor Leslie.

In keeping with Richard’s wishes, no service is planned.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Barkes, Weaver and Glick Funeral Home, 1029 Washington St., Columbus.

Cremation will take place following visitation.

Memorials may be made to Red Sky Rescue, 8305 W. County Road 150N, Medora, IN 47260; the Jackson County Dog Shelter fund, 107 Community Drive, Seymour, IN 47274; or Anchor House Family Assistance Center, 250 S. Vine St., Seymour, IN 47274.

Online condolences may be made at barkesweaverglick.com.