Richard Allen French

He was raised by loving foster parents, Mr. & Mrs. Keating, as he lost his biological parents at a young age. He was fortunate to grow up with two brothers, (Eddie & Jimmy). Although separated at an early age, he was able to maintain close contact with all of his siblings throughout the years.

Richard was very proud of his educational accomplishments, from winning The Francis Ouimet golf scholarship to Harvard to ultimately earning his Doctorate degree from Boston University under the mentorship of his dear friend Sajed Kamal. Richard devoted his life to the service of others, through education, counselling, philanthropy and more. He was a dedicated advocate for those in need.

In 1982 Richard moved to California and began his career in nonprofit. As Executive Director of the American Cancer Society he carried out multi-million dollar fund raising campaigns, coordinated the delivery of programs and services, and developed an influential Board of Directors. He discovered his passion for nonprofit work.

This led Richard to start his own fund development consulting business where he helped nonprofit organizations achieve management and fundraising goals. Richard has conducted capital campaigns to build senior centers, community centers, additions to college and hospital buildings, and established ongoing fundraising programs for organizations in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

Richard will be lovingly remembered by his wife Lena; his children: Richard Jr. (Holly), Keith, Leslieann (Tim), Kevin and their mother Shirley; his cherished grandchildren: Shekinah (Daniel), Andrew (Yessenia), Hosanna, Josiah (K.C.), Graeme, Blaise (Christina), LilyRose (Jacob); along with his precious great-grandchildren: Sean, Stella, and Journey. He was predeceased by his biological parents, foster parents and siblings. He also leaves behind many valued friends, adored nieces and nephews, and dear extended family.

A Celebration of Life for Richard will be held on Wednesday June 24, 2026, at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Mortuary, 10621 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91606. All who knew him are welcome. There will be a Viewing at 9am, Service at 10am, Burial at 11:30am, and Reception from 12:00pm-2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Richard's memory to join him in one last campaign to support: The Joe Martin ALS Foundation of Charlotte, NC, www.joemartinalsfoundation.org/donate a cause that held special meaning for him.