Richard Lee Bethea

Rick was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared 46 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Cindy Bethea, a partnership built on love, loyalty, and countless shared memories. He was a proud father to Zach Bethea (Casey Harris) and Alicia Kersten (Scott Kersten), and a deeply cherished grandfather to Taylor Graham (Colby Graham), Kylee Molnar (Griffin Molnar), Kale Kersten, Grace Veltri, and Rylan Kersten. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Saylor Molnar and Colby Brian Graham Jr.

He is also survived by his brothers, Russ and Ron Bethea, and his sister, Renee Crouch, all of whom will remember him for his steady presence and enduring bond as a brother.

Rick was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Amelia Grace Graham; his parents, Glenda and Lionel Bethea; his brother, Mike Bethea all of whom he held close in his heart.

For 35 years, Rick worked faithfully for Memphis Light, Gas and Water, where he built a reputation for dedication, hard work, and reliability. Outside of his career, he found joy in the simple things that brought him peace and connection. He was an avid hunter who appreciated time spent outdoors, and he rarely missed a chance to cheer on his favorite teams, proudly supporting the University of Tennessee and the University of Memphis. He was also a loyal NASCAR fan, always ready to watch a race and share in the excitement.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 23, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., with funeral services and burial to follow at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway.

Rick will be remembered for his love of family, his steady strength, and the quiet ways he showed he cared. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.