Richard Mansel Hearn

Richard was born January 12, 1950 to Christine and Oba M. Hearn in Columbus, Ga. His father’s army career moved the family to a number of stations, but the family eventually returned to Columbus and established their roots. After graduating Columbus High School in 1968, Richard went on to study Political Science, graduating from Columbus College and then beginning a career as a builder/remodeler.

During his time in construction, Richard was active in the Exchange Club of Columbus and Columbus Home Builders Association for whom he served as president. His love of history led Richard to pursue a certification as a social studies teacher, as well as his Master’s of Education from Columbus State University. He joined the staff of Hardaway High School where he taught his favorite topics for fifteen years.

A man of many interests, Richard liked to stay busy and learn new skills. In his youth, he was active in sports, JROTC, and Boy Scouts, being one of few to earn his Eagle Scout Badge. As he entered adulthood, he got into racing, laughing at superstition with #13 on his car. When Richard found a new hobby, he was all in; baking and selling cheesecakes, building his own darkroom, and creating intricate track layouts and landscapes for model trains to name just a few examples.

Richard was an avid reader, loved watching a good western or war movie, and could beat almost anyone in a round of trivia, but above all, he cherished time spent with friends and family. His joy came from sharing old stories and creating new memories with the people he loved.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, and is survived by his loving wife, Paula Schlader Hearn; son, Tucker Hearn and daughter, Barrie Jarrett (Mason); grandchildren, Emily Hearn, Elizabeth Hearn, Charlie Hearn, Patch Hearn, Mary Rollins Jarrett, and Holt Jarrett; his sister, Barbara Looney (Victor); and a number of nieces and nephews. He will be forever loved by all.

A memorial service will be held in the chapel at First Baptist Church on Thursday, May 30 at 2:00 pm with a reception afterward

In lieu of flowers, donations to Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama would be greatly appreciated.