Richard F. Detweiler, 92, of Fort Smith passed from this life October 9, 2021 in Fort Smith. He was born in Doyleston, Pennsylvania April 7, 1929 to Enos Lapp Detweiler and Frances Maude Davis Detweiler. After high school, Richard enlisted in the United States Army, and after 20 years retired as Command Sergeant Major. While in the Army, when time permitted, Richard furthered his education. Upon retirement, he earned his Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Arkansas, then his Master’s degree from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Richard utilized his degree as a teacher in the Fort Smith School District with Kimmons and Darby Jr. High schools. His final teaching position was with Mountainburg Jr. High. Richard was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Fort Smith.
Richard is survived by his daughter Barbara and her husband Pete Bower of Fort Smith; his son Richard P. Detweiler and his wife Shangting of Dallas; his granddaughter Sandra Detweiler; one brother in law Charles R. and wife Dottie Rabon of Kingfisher, Oklahoma and nieces Rebecca and Rose. He was preceded in death by his wife Hester, his parents and siblings.
Funeral services will be 1:00pm Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Burial, with United States Army Honors, will follow at Fort Smith National Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 5:00 to 7:00pm Monday, October 18, 2021 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Services are under Edwards Funeral Home.
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