He is survived by his wife, Annette Freer; son Quinn and wife Leah; daughter Michelle and husband Doug; granddaughter Ciara and husband Collyn and extended family. He will also be missed by his many friends, business associates and customers.
Born in Dallas, Texas Richard's early years were spent moving, as his father Les Freer evolved in the gun business before starting the Freer Gun Shop in 1961. In 1956 the family settled here in Houston.
A graduate of St. Thomas High in 1964, Richard joined his father at the Freer Gun Shop at the age of 16. He was an early pioneer in realizing the future value and collectability of high grade shotgun and rifles.
Richard developed a knowledge of firearms that allowed Freer Gun Shop to assist generations of customers, many of whom have become friends. He and his business became a centerpiece in Houston's sporting and collecting market, and for years Richard was an active member in The Browning Collectors Association; The Parker Gun Collectors Association, The Houston Gun Collectors Association, The Ohio Gun Collectors and Gun Owners of America.
His expertise in fine firearms and business travels allowed him to meet people from all walks of life, from all parts of the country throughout a career spanning more than five decades in the industry.
Unknown to many, Richard was a great source of knowledge in Texas and American History, Automobiles, Stamps, and Coins. He often spent time watching docuseries, or reading to widen his knowledge of his interests, particularly of the greatest mystery in his hometown, Who Killed President John F. Kennedy?
His death was a blessed release after suffering several years with deteriorating health, and it is best he be remembered not as he was in his later years of pain, but his many years of joy, compassion, charisma, and positivity towards his family, friends, and the community his business served.
There will be no formal service. The family wishes you to use the words from the verse below and celebrate him with stories, experiences and memories that you would like to share with his family.
"Whatever we were to each, that we are still. Call me by my old familiar name, speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be spoken as it always was. Let it be spoken without effort."
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