Richard "Dick" Durwood

Richard Durwood, 96, a devoted husband, father, friend, and accomplished businessman, passed away on July 7, 2026, leaving a lasting imprint on all who knew and loved him.

Family, Education, and Partnership

After losing his mother at age 14, Richard left Kansas City to continue his studies back East. He graduated with honors from Brown University, where he met the love of his life, Maureen Wolkoff.

Richard and Maureen married and settled in Kansas City in 1950, where they raised their three children: Keith, Jan, and Dana. Together, they built an enduring partnership centered on family, world travel, and lifelong support for the performing arts. For more than 68 years, he remained her White Knight, and she remained his inspiration.

A Family Legacy in Entertainment

Richard’s father, Edward Dubinsky Durwood—known as “Handsome Ed”—began his career as a traveling tent-show actor. As motion pictures emerged, Ed recognized the entertainment industry was rapidly changing. He left the road and invested in his first Kansas City movie theater, The Regent.

From that first theater, Ed expanded regionally and founded Durwood Theaters. After his death in 1960, Richard and his older brother, Stan, continued the family business, which later became AMC Entertainment.

Leadership in the Theater Industry

Richard oversaw film booking, buying, and operations. He also developed an innovative concession system with eye-catching displays and guest-friendly, efficient service.

His professionalism quickly earned the respect of national film companies and theater owners across the country. He was later elected president of the National Organization of Theatre Owners, where he influenced the development of a movie rating system for the Motion Picture Association of America.

Crown Cinema and Later Years

Richard later formed Crown Cinema Corp., a 170-screen regional movie theater chain, which he successfully guided for more than 20 years.

In his later years, Richard could often be found outside near the side of his driveway, dressed in his customary dress clothes and suspenders, seated in an old folding chair with a mystery book and a fine cigar. It was quintessential Richard.

A Lasting Legacy

Known for his intelligence, thoughtful manner, warmth, and contagious smile, Richard met life’s challenges with grace, perseverance, and quiet strength.

────────────

Richard always said that his greatest achievement was the loving, close-knit family he and Maureen built together.

He is survived by his son, Keith Durwood (Heidi), daughters Jan Durwood (Skip Champion) and Dana Wylie, his grandchildren Aaron Wylie, Tyler Durwood, Jessica Wylie and great grandchildren Lottie and Weslie Wylie.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Maureen Durwood, son-in-law, Dave Wylie, brother Stan Durwood, and sister Marjorie Grant.

✦ ✧ ✦ ✧ ✦ ✧ ✦ ✧ ✦

The family owe a debt of gratitude to Bridget Hawkins, who provided exceptional care and love for both Richard and Maureen in their final years. Her calling is our blessing.

A private family funeral service will be held at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131 on Friday, July 17th at 2:00 pm with a private family entombment in the Faith Mausoleum at Mt. Moriah Cemetery South to follow the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Music Theater Heritage, The KC Symphony, or a charity of your choice.