Richard Warren Pipe

Richard Warren Pipe passed away peacefully at Hospice of the Golden Isles February 20, 2026 with his wife of 42 years by his side. Dick was born September 17, 1943, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota where he spent his childhood and early adult life.

Dick attended Augustana University prior to proudly joining the Marines. After graduating Boot Camp at the top of his class, Dick served a tour in Viet Nam flying the F-4 Phantom in which he achieved a record setting 155 successful missions. Following his service in Viet Nam, Dick was assigned to Glynco Naval Base in Brunswick, Georgia as a radar instructor. At the conclusion of eight years of service, he was asked to return to Viet Nam but decided to retire from the Marines with a rank of Captain and enter civilian life in the Golden Isles of Georgia.

Dick began his career as a restaurateur with the opening of The Lion, a deli in downtown Brunswick followed by a partnership with Steve Jackson and the establishment of W.G. FOTTS on St. Simons Island. Later, he and Steve were joined by Tom Cross and Steve Gardner in developing Lanier Island and the ever-famous Emmeline and Hessie Restaurant. Emmeline’s remained a favorite among locals and visitors alike until its closing in 1993. Dick subsequently founded Pipe Construction and spent many successful years building beautiful homes on St. Simons Island until a stroke forced his retirement.

Dick was an avid golfer and enjoyed six holes-in-one during his active play. Although the stroke left him partially paralyzed on one side, he never lost his determination or faith in himself. He would often be seen practicing his one-armed swing by hitting golf balls out of the backyard across the marsh.

A faithful member of St. Simons United Methodist Church, Dick cherished the time he spent serving on various committees including Chairman of the Trustees. He, along with Reverend Marsha Cochra, Mary Brittan, and Anne Frazier was responsible for the establishment of the Children’s Preschool at the church. He was a long-time member of the church choir and eagerly looked forward to singing Sunday morning music.

Dick loved his community and gave his time serving as President of the local Make a Wish Foundation and Big Brothers and a volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce “Shop Glynn” Campaign. For many years as a volunteer, at the request of Davis and Mark Love, Dick headed all transportation for the RSM Classic benefiting the Davis Love Foundation.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents Lillian E. and Dale H. Pipe and brother-in-law William Duke Smith. He is survived by his devoted wife Elizabeth Smith Pipe, sister Dona P. Steele (Rodney) Brookings, SD, brother Robert H. Pipe (Sonja) Cedar Creek, TX, daughters Kim Brogan, Augusta GA and Nicole Cox Jacksonville Beach, FL. brother-in-law E. Maxwell Smith (Alice) Lady Lakes, FL, nieces Sabrina S. Boyd (Brandon) and Tiffany Smith, nephew Steffan Smith (Emily) and his many precious great-nieces and nephews. Also surviving are Alicia Anderson, Edward Armstrong, and loving caregivers Carrie Emanuel and Lorraine Alston.

Pall Bearers are Wayne Murphy, Taylor Adams, Chuck Carter, Forrest Brown, E. Ward Smith, Bobby Hodgson, Randy Jordan, Chris Jordan, Ben Jordan, Thomas Jordan, Michael Popa, Jason Hodges, Wesley Hodges, Don Blalock, Steve Jackson, John Barnes and Joe MaDonough.

Dick leaves a legacy of strength, honesty, kindness, humor, and memorable friendships. He will be so missed by family and those that knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Simons United Methodist Church or a charity of their choosing.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 20, 2026, 2 PM at St. Simons United Methodist Church with Reverend Marsha Cochran and Reverand Benjy Barnell officiating. A reception will follow the service in the church’s Thorpe Building.