Richard C. DeSpain

Born in Quanah, TX to C.B. and Helen DeSpain, Rick was raised in Oklahoma and Texas following World War II. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, he entered the US Army, commissioned by Congress as an officer and a gentleman, volunteered for two tours in Vietnam, and continued serving in various US posts and in Central and South America. He proudly served his country in the Infantry, Airborne, Special Forces, Rangers, Intelligence and Transportation.

Rick returned to the University of Oklahoma in the 1970’s to pursue a Master’s in Drama, and while there met his wife, Jean-Ellen. They married in 1979, and moved to Florida to open a performing arts school, Studio South. Rick performed and directed in most of north Florida’s theatres including Theatre Jacksonville, Players by the Sea, the Case Theatre, Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre, and the 5 & Dime Theatre, as well as others. He played kings, saints, sinners and artists, gave a truly memorable performance as the Stage Manager in Our Town, as well as portrayals of coal miners, criminals, doctors, lawyers and janitor with Downs Syndrome who clearly saw God. He taught young actors to be passionate and truthful, to work hard and to follow their craft in the same manner that he did.

A loving father to Fiona, he was committed to demonstrating godly fatherhood and encouraging us all to be people of faith and commitment. At home, he loved to bake bread and smoke some amazing barbecue; and to share meals and fellowship with family and friends. He also found time to volunteer with Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida, fostering 22 Labs until they found their “fur-ever” homes, and serving in a variety of volunteer roles. He and Jean-Ellen also learned pet photography and started a business, Field and Studio Photography.

In 1996, Rick converted to Orthodox Christianity, following a lifelong pursuit of God and a life in Christ. He was a graduate of the University of Balamund (Damascus) and of St. Stephens Course of Advanced Studies. A Reader at St. Justin the Martyr parish in Jacksonville, FL, he loved his parish, his reading and his opportunities to teach and share his faith.

His deep faith in God greatly influenced his path in life as our family extended to include our god-children and their families and our parish community.

Rick suffered a stroke three years ago that ended his teaching career at LaVilla School of the Arts, in Jacksonville FL, a school that he helped design and led its drama department during their early years. He encouraged their inclusion in the Junior Thespians organization and took an active role in Florida Association of Theatre Educators during those years. He took great joy in the successes, struggles and work of his students, and was grieved to have to leave them early.

His ability to teach Sunday School and read during Liturgy at church also become both a huge challenge and a great joy.

In 2018, we moved to Michigan, having agreed that we had one more “adventure” left to us that would bring us closer to Fiona, following her marriage to Jon Heady.

In 2019, Rick learned that Fiona and Jon were expecting their firstborn child. He was overjoyed to become a “Papa.” His grandson, Fenrir Gerasimus, was born on February 29, 2020 (a “leapling”) and Rick reposed one day later, after learning of his safe arrival on March 1, 2020.

Rick is survived by his wife, Jean-Ellen, daughters, Danielle and Fiona (Jon Heady) and grandson, Fenrir. Also, by his brother, Paul, and sister, Jackie. He is remembered by a number of god-children, all of whom he loves, cherishes and prays for.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Rick’s memory to Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, 36075 W Seven Mile Road, Livonia MI 48152 or

The LaVilla Foundation (for LaVilla School of the Arts) at www.lavillafoundation.org