Richard Lee Sellinger

Richard was born to Louis Jack Sellinger and Monte Lee Pogue, December 29, 1944, in San Antonio, Texas. He graduated from Thomas Edison High School and received a bachelor’s degree from East Texas State University. He married the love of his life, Patricia Lynn Sellinger, in 1984. Together they built a beautiful life that took them from Colorado, Minnesota, and California before ultimately returning home to San Antonio, Texas. No matter where life led them, home was always wherever they were together.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Coone; his son-in-law, Sheldon Coone; his grandson, Braxton Coone; along with many beloved extended family members, his cherished Sigma Chi brothers, and countless dear friends whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Lynn Sellinger, his father, Louis Jack Sellinger, and his mother Monte Lee Pogue.

Richard devoted 44 years to the optical industry, serving as Director of Wholesale Sales in North America for American Optical Corporation, Sola Optical, and Vision Ease Lens. More than a career, it was an opportunity to build lifelong friendships, mentor others, and leave a lasting impact on an industry he genuinely loved.

Richard never met a stranger, only someone who hadn't yet heard one of his stories. He had an infectious enthusiasm for Texas history and was a walking encyclopedia when it came to the Alamo. If you found yourself in downtown San Antonio with Richard, chances were you were getting an unforgettable history lesson, whether you planned on it or not. After retirement, he turned that passion into a second calling, giving tours of the Alamo, the San Antonio Missions, and historic downtown with the same excitement and pride as if he were introducing visitors to old friends.

Richard never shied away from a spirited political discussion. He was well-informed, passionate about his convictions, and always ready to debate the issues, whether you asked him to or not. Those who knew him often joked that he should have run for Congress or the U.S. Senate. Whether he would have won is anyone's guess, but no one doubted he would have kept everyone on their toes.

His loyalty ran deep. He was a devoted fan of Texas Longhorn football, the Baltimore Colts in 1983, and the Los Angeles Dodgers, celebrating every victory and confidently explaining how the officials somehow managed to miss the obvious on the tougher days.

Richard also treasured the lifelong brotherhood of his Sigma Chi brothers. The friendships he formed through Sigma Chi were among the greatest blessings of his life, and he cherished the countless memories, laughter, traditions, and unwavering support they shared throughout the years. To Richard, once a Sigma Chi brother, always family.

Above all, Richard had a generous heart. He was passionate about serving the homeless community and quietly extended kindness, compassion, and generosity to those in need, rarely seeking recognition for the difference he made. He believed that every person deserved dignity, respect, and a helping hand, and he lived those values every day.

A Graveside service is scheduled for July 13, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Park, 1701 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, Texas 78218. The family requests that donations be made to Haven for Hope at Havenforhope.org. We feel this is a meaningful way to continue kindness and generosity that meant so much to him. The family would also like to thank co-workers, lifelong friends in the optical industry, his Sigma Chi brothers, our family, friends, neighbors, and everyone who has reached out with support and prayers.