Roy was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 14, 1942, the son of Riley H. and Eloise S. Richards. Roy graduated from Roosevelt High School in Des Moines, Iowa. He earned a BA from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, and a Master in Business Administration from the University of Chicago. After receiving his MBA, he served as an officer in the Navy. In 1971, he married Gloria Wallis from Warren, Michigan.
During his business career, Roy worked for four major U.S. corporations. Later he and Gloria settled in Clive where he started a consulting business, co-founded the Middle Age Renewal Training Institute (MART) and wrote two motivational books. In his leisure time, Roy enjoyed running, reading, traveling and attending sporting events. He also hosted an online talk show.
Roy is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gloria; son Geoff (Amber) of Pflugerville, TX; sister Lynne Beck (Bruce) of Lake Elmo, MN; and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and daughter Navy Lieutenant Kristen Richards.
A service will be held at a later date.
Memorial gifts to a charity of the donor's choice.