Richard Edward Linhardt, 89, Columbia, passed away Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, surrounded by his family.
He was born Feb. 21,1936, to the late August and Clara Linhardt (née Busch), in Mount Sterling.
He was a beloved son, brother, father, husband, grandfather and great-grandfather.
In 1958 Richard was united in marriage to loving wife Patricia (née Jones), whom he met while serving in the U. S. Coast Guard in New Orleans, La. They shared 67 years of devoted companionship and raised three sons together.
He worked as a Professor of Agricultural Education and Engineering for 27 years and taught at Clemson University, Washington State University and the University of Missouri. Richard received numerous accolades including the R.M. Wade Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1978 and was a lifelong member of the FFA. In 1998, he retired from the University of Missouri.
Richard was an avid farmer and enjoyed driving frequently to Florida. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, mechanics, welding, woodworking and construction. Richard was a man who made connections wherever he went whether it was chatting with the mayor in Carrabelle, Fla. or with members of the Rusty Zipper Club in Columbia.
Above all, Richard loved his family and ensured that they were always taken care of.
He was preceded in death by parents August and Clara; brothers, Paul and Willard; and sister, Mary Anne.
Richard is survived by wife Patricia; sons, Richard Dale, Michael and wife Deborah and Jeffrey and wife Kimberly; grandchildren, Austin, Claire and husband Bruce, Justin and wife Anna and Alexander and wife Anya; and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral service was held Saturday, Nov. 15, at Robinson-Yager Funeral Home in Ashland.
Arrangements entrusted to Robinson-Yager Funeral in Ashland.
Condolences may be shared at www.robinsonyager.com.
