Richard Alan Kerwin

Richard was the beloved husband of Rebecca Rutledge Kerwin, who survives him. He was a proud and loving father to Sandra Kerwin Meeks (John) and Stacey Kerwin Newell (Chris). His greatest joy in life was being “Poppy” to his treasured grandchildren: John Newell, Alan Newell, Andrew Newell, Kathleen Newell, and Isabella Meeks (affectionately known as “Monkey 1”), and step-granddaughter Jaelyn Flick (“Monkey 2”). Nothing made him happier than capturing their smiles through his camera lens or cheering them on in all they did.

He was also survived by his sisters, Mary Frances Kerwin Bolton (Charles) and Melissa Kerwin Blauvelt (Scott); sister-in-law Debbie Kerwin. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Mary Kerwin, and by his brothers, Harold (Pat) Kerwin and Dennis Kerwin (Candy).

Richard proudly answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps, in 1970. He served during the Vietnam War, including assignments at the U.S. Embassy in Saigon and in Stockholm, Sweden. His time in the Marines was a source of lifelong pride and it shaped the discipline and dedication that defined his life.

Following his military service, Richard continued his commitment to protecting others. He served as a Deputy with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and later as the Lieutenant Watch Commander at the New Orleans Superdome. He concluded his distinguished career in security with Paragon Systems, Inc. Throughout his years of service, he earned the respect of his colleagues and the gratitude of the community he helped safeguard.

Beyond his career, Richard was a man of deep passions. He loved photography, especially taking pictures and videos of his grandchildren, preserving countless precious memories. He was a devoted fan of the New Orleans Saints and cherished traveling with his family, creating adventures and stories that will live for generations.

Richard will be remembered for his steady presence, his dedication to duty, his love for his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who loved him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the gathering on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 10:00 am inside All Saints Mausoleum in Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans LA 70124. Followed by a graveside service at 10:30 am with Marine Honors.

A Letter from Heaven

When tomorrow starts without me

And I’m not there to see;

If the sun should rise and find your eyes

All filled with tears for me.

I wish so much you wouldn’t cry

The way you did today;

While thinking of the many things

We didn’t get to say

I know how much you love me

As much as I love you;

And each time that you think of me,

I know you’ll miss me too.

When tomorrow starts without me,

Don’t think we’re far apart

For every time you think of me,

I’m right here in your heart.