Richard Dennis Anderson

Born on February 26, 1947, in Corsicana, Texas, Dennis grew up in various parts of Texas where he cultivated the enduring values of hard work, loyalty, and deep devotion to family, principles that shaped his entire life.

He attended Reagan High School (Heights High School) in Houston, Texas, where he met his high school sweetheart, Katherine Gargano. Their union blossomed into 38 years of cherished marriage, filled with love and partnership, until her passing in 2009.

Dennis was a devoted and immensely proud father to his son, Danny. He was a loving father-in-law to Sarah Lindsey Anderson and a doting grandfather to Ava, Robby, Oliver, and Ellie, who brought him immense joy.

A man of deep faith in Jesus, Dennis shared his musical gifts throughout his adult life, leading music at various churches throughout the years. He directed and participated in bell choirs and adult choirs and loved playing the piano and organ, enriching worship services and touching countless hearts through his talent and dedication.

Professionally, Dennis served as a Physician’s Assistant before becoming a respected professor in Physician’s Assistant programs in Indiana, Ohio, North Carolina, and Tennessee. In these roles, his compassionate caring nature shone brightly every day, as he helped heal patients and mentored future healthcare professionals with kindness and expertise.

In his later years, Dennis found love again with Connie Lynn Smith, enjoying 11 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2024. Through this marriage, he gained a devoted stepson, Clint Anthony, who provided invaluable support, love and care to both Dennis and Connie in their final years.

Dennis will be remembered for his genuine kindness, and profound care for those around him. His warmth and generosity left a lasting legacy on family, friends, colleagues, and all who were fortunate to know him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wives, Katherine Gargano Anderson (2009) and Connie Smith Anderson (2024) along with brother Larry Anderson and mother Jeanette Benfield and father Buford Anderson.

Dennis is survived by his sons, Danny Anderson and Clint Anthony; daughter-in-law, Sarah Lindsey Anderson; grandchildren, Ava, Robby, Oliver, and Ellie; as well as his siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends from the various chapters of his life.

A visitation and committal service will take place on Saturday, March 7th in Houston, Texas at Brookside Funeral Home 13747 Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77039. Visitation will be held from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. followed by the committal at 2:30 p.m. with son Pastor Danny Anderson officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be sent to Ascension Lutheran Church, 610 W Old Hickory Blvd, Madison, TN 37115 in memory of Dennis Anderson.