Richard G. Tripp

Richard Graham Tripp, 84, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 17, 2020, surrounded by family and friends. Born March 19, 1936 in Highland Parks, Michigan, he was one of three sons born to Jess and Gertrude Tripp. Richard married the love of his life, Carolyn Lee (Drake) Tripp, on February 7, 1961. Married for almost sixty years, together they raised eight children: Nathan C. Tripp; James S. Tripp; T. David Tripp (deceased); Jenny M. Hatch; Lisa C. Goddard; Richard G. Tripp; Catherine L. Turner; and Emily A. Daniel. Richard and Carolyn have thirty grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Richard became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a young man, a decision that profoundly affected the rest of his life. He served as a missionary for the church in the Pacific Northwest area of the United States. He graduated from Brigham Young University and then worked for the State Farm Insurance Company for almost thirty-five years. After retiring from State Farm, Richard and his wife served as missionaries in Nigeria and South Korea. Richard also served in the church in many capacities, including as bishop and patriarch. His love for the Lord was unbounded and firm to the end.

A friend to all, Richard loved people. He also loved music, dancing, being part of a team, each and every one of his extended family members – but most of all his beloved wife, Carolyn. He leaves behind a legacy of gentleness, kindness, generosity, and integrity. To know him was to love him – our dear Poppa!