Richard Pagard: Dec. 14, 1953-July 4, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Richard Pagard, who tragically passed away on July 4th, 2025, during the Kerrville floods along the Guadalupe River.

Born on December 14th, 1953, in Dallas, TX, to missionaries Neil and Billie Pagard, Richard lived a life full of spirit, bravery, and adventure—leaving behind a legacy that will forever be remembered by his loved ones and those fortunate enough to have known him.

Richard was known for having a lively spirit with a quiet presence, also his relentless drive for self-improvement, and a quiet strength that inspired those around him. Richard embodied the hardworking spirit of his upbringing—one built on resilience, grit, and pride in doing things right.

Raised in South Africa by his missionary family grounded in strong faith, he developed a deep sense of perseverance, self-reliance, and purpose that shaped him throughout his life.

He was a man of many passions—among them a deep love for South Africa and especially Kruger National Park, his favorite place in the world. He took great pride in sharing his South African upbringing, often trying to weave Afrikaans into as many conversations as possible.

Richard was also a skilled pilot, and his beloved plane, Sheila, became a symbol of his fearless spirit and passion for adventure. He had a deep love for the outdoors and found joy in fishing and gun collecting—two of his greatest pastimes. He maintained a vast and carefully curated gun collection, which he was incredibly proud of. His appreciation for nature and craftsmanship was evident in the way he treasured both the quiet moments in the wild and the history behind each firearm he owned.

At the time of his passing, Richard was married to Carol Andrews, whom he loved dearly and with whom he looked forward to a joyful and adventurous retirement. Their final evening together, spent at Howdy’s Bar & Chill in Kerrville, was a moment filled with laughter and love—one that now holds even deeper meaning, as Carol also tragically lost her life in the floods.

Richard was preceded in death by his cherished parents, Neil Pagard and Mildred “Billie” Pagard, whom he loved deeply and held in the highest regard. They were Christian missionaries whose strong faith led them to South Africa, where they raised their family with purpose, resilience, and love. Richard was one of seven children in a close-knit family whose unity and shared values left a lasting impression on him. The strength, character, and unwavering principles of his parents shaped much of who Richard became, and he carried their legacy with deep pride throughout his life.

Richard is survived by his three children: Jaeme Behrendt, Ann Frye, and Erik Pagard, and by his seven granddaughters: Laura Pagard, Summer Cullen, Kaya Pagard, Jillian Pagard, Delaney Frye, Macartney Frye, and Chloe Behrendt—each of whom held a place in his heart. His family will each carry loving memories of him, holding onto the ways he touched their lives and the pieces of his story that live on through them.

Richard is also survived by his six siblings: David Pagard, Colleen Slatter, Terence Pagard, John Pagard, Glenda Pagard, and Sandi Briggs—a large, loving family bound by deep love, faith, and countless shared memories. Together, they navigated life’s challenges and joys side by side, forming a foundation of strength and unity that remained unshakable throughout the years. Richard held a special bond with each of his siblings, and their enduring connection was a source of comfort, laughter, and lifelong support.

Though his life ended far too soon, Richard’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. He was a man who danced to the beat of his own drum—sometimes literally, always to country music. He was a teacher of the two-step, a keeper of stories, a man who never met a stranger. His life was an anthem of courage, curiosity, and compassion.

Richard Pagard was a truly remarkable soul. May his memory be a blessing, and may his spirit continue to soar.