Name: Porter Loring Mortuary - McCullough
Address: San Antonio, TX

Bob was one of the funniest guys I knew. He could make the bluest water bluer, and the most colorful rainbow brighter.

I had Mr. Richmond for a Critical Reading and Writing class at UTSA in 1985. It was one of my most memorable college experiences. Recently, I happened upon the journal he had us keep for the class, along with some of the essays I wrote about the books and films he assigned. Before taking his class, I enjoyed reading his columns on education in the San Antonio Light. So sorry I missed telling him thank you.

I enjoyed all the times on the tennis court. Bob was a good friend and I am missing him today.

I just found this after reminiscing about high school and Mr. Richmond's class (class '82). He was a great teacher, and a great guy. Very empathetic, very smart. I am saddened the world has lost his voice.

Wow. Ran across this today, this is a bit late, but I was a senior at JMHS in 1980 when Bob had his English class right next to Bob DeMunbruns, which I was in. Both teachers often opened the divider between classrooms and engaged both classes together in discussing literary classics. Mr. Richmond was truly engaging and really made you think outside the box where literature was concerned. I’m hoping that he and Mr “D” as we knew him are still conducting classes with an open divider up in heaven having a blast as we certainly did. 

Belated condolences from Miles C. Mueller

Hi Mr. Richmond,

Happy Father's Day in Heaven. I'd like to think if I met you in person, I would know you as Bob. But I am honored to carry your name and receive the love, care, and integrity of the man you raised. He has truly changed my life and given me faith. Though imperfect, he has a fire in him that I believe you lit, to never give up, a growth mindset and belief that he can achieve and he can always do betterand he does. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME I have never admired a man more. Your grandson is amazing and I am grateful for the privilege of being a part of his village. I hope I will get to meet you someday and thank you for changing my life, by changing John's. All my love to my soon to be Father in Law.

With Gratitude,
Tami Richmond

'I was in Bob's memoir writing class at ALIR for several years. We shared a love of language and communication. He was a wonderful teacher and caring human being. Bob is a loss to so many people. It was a privilege to have known him.'

'My condolences to the family. RIP Mr. Richmond -you will never be forgotten by any of your Bulldog and Palo Alto Students. 

-Gerardo Romo'

'I was his waitress at Paesanos ,I waited on him every Monday morning as well as Russel ,I miss him dearly ,I didnt know he passed ,I just happen to put his name in and this is what popped up so sad .'

'I miss you so very much my dear friend. We were neighbors for so many years, and the good times Hector and I had taking care of the yard, and cooking outdoors, and listening to the chauvenistic Pinkard and Bowden music that we laughed at. I can still see you clapping your hands and laughing along with me.

I will always remember us hitting Saturday morning garage sales, and you loading the back of your Cadillac with all kinds of junk for us to bring home--no matter how ugly I said it would look in your beautiful house and you determined to bring it home anyway.

 I could go on forever about the adventures we three got into, but in private you were never much one for words. But, oh, those looks you gave. We'll have to go on without you for now. Until later.

Rest In Peace my love, and I will take good care of Hector for you.

Love, Sonja'

'I had the privilege of knowing Bob for 45 years. He was a kind, generous, and faithful friend. May the Lord give him the peace and the rest he truly deserves'

'I knew Mr. Richmond when I was a student at TMI (Class of 1971). I never had him for a teacher, but I always enjoyed visiting with him.

James Hill'

'Bob Richmond was one of the wittiest, quick-minded people with whom I've had any association. I was exceedingly fortunate to have worked with him a at Palo Alto College for many years and benefit from his kindness, irreverent humor, and pervasive optimism. He was a genuinely good man. God bless you, Bob.'

'Mr Richmond was a wonderful teacher and a kind human being. I was blessed to have him as my teacher for a Film Analysis class at James Madison High School back in the early 80s. I am grateful to have known him and for his influence in my life and what later became a 24 year career. Thank you Mr Richmond for your presence on Earth and for all your good works during your time here. You are remembered fondly and with gratitude. I offer prayers and condolences to your family. Blessed Be.'

'I was in Bob Richmond's class ar ALIR for several years, but not this year. He was a great teacher and wonderful human being. I fondly remember the "End of the Year" potluck parties at his house and patio. With sympathy. Ursula Carlberg, 17 April 2017'

'Great and accomplished man. There has been many alumni members responding to knowing/remembering him as a good person and great teacher. To his family, we the Burbank alumni group of San Antonio, Tx, extend our heartfelt condolences.
*I am the adm, of the on-line Fb, Burbank High School Alumni Group of SA,TX/gh'

'Mr. Richmond was my English professor at Palo Alto. He shared his priceless gift of teaching through literature, wit, music and grace, and instilled in me a love of writing that will sustain me always. I will forever appreciate his kindness. Thank you for being, Mr. Richmond.'

'Bob was one of a kind. Worked with him for years at Palo Alto College. Always started our conversation with- "Peter, waddya know?" He always knew more than the rest of us but loved getting a new scoop. Will miss him.'

'Bob and I first met at the opening of Madison H.S. Between classes on the E wing, we could meet in the hall with Bob Demunbrun and exchange witty remarks before returning to our classrooms before the bell to 'enlighten' another batch of students. Bob was a keen observer of life and human nature, and his insights were often on the mark! Years later at the service for Bob Demunbrun, Bob shared his enjoyment of teaching at the Alamo Colleges. He encouraged me, and I joined him at Palo Alto. For years I was also a student in his memoir writing class. The chairs in those classrooms were always filled. After class he liked to share lunch at Paesano's restaurant. And after every semester, he hosted a party at his house for his memoir-writing students. His house was filled with laughter and abundant food. A life too short. I will miss his phone calls calling to see how I was doing. He was a genuine friend.'

'Mr. Richmond was an amazing teacher who truly cared about making sure that his students were prepared for life beyond high school. He challenged us beyond our own narrow minded teenage minds. Our condolences to the family of this remarkable man who made such an impact on so many lives in this world.'

'I first met Bob when I first moved to San Antonio in the '80s when I began reading his education column in The Light. I, too, was an English teacher who really appreciated his insightful commentaries and love of language. Then, 8 years ago, I met him in person teaching his Memoir Writing class at ALIR. I took his class every chance I got to facilitate my own memoir writing. He would listen intently (as we all would) to the stories the class would share. His encouragement and advice were always welcome from those of us who had not done much personal writing. He would periodically ask me, "When are we going to see another letter to the editor?" What a great man, humanitarian, teacher, and friend. We will miss you, Bob Richmond.'

'My husband and I both graduated from Madison H.S. and knew Mr. Richmond. We are so sorry for your loss. Our condolences to all of his family and friends.'

'Mr. Richmond taught my senior English class. He challenged us, he engaged us, he encouraged us. It was a treat to spend time him at group dinners, he treated us as equals and was a great conversationalist. His style stayed with me, and I found myself often "talking with my hands" when lecturing to my chemistry students--I still do in presentations. RIP, Mr. Bob.

--Kevin Kane, PhD, JMHS 1982'

'I never knew the man personally but everyone I know speaks of how kind a man he was and what a joy it was to know him. So I will remember this great man and see the impact his life had on everyone he knew.'

'Mr. Richmond was a blessing as a teacher and a man, I was fortunate to have him my senior year, a great and compassionate man, I had almost forgotten how much I enjoyed the time I spent in his classrooms. He will be remembered by many. RIP sir,'

'My condolences to his family and those close to him. Rest in peace good friend, Thank you so much for your guidance, friendship and generosity.
I was an Art student at Palo Alto College and he was an English teacher (unfortunately not MY English teacher). I honestly don't know how we were introduced, but his door was always open. It was around 1993 at the time and I was working on oil paintings that depicted soccer and the emotions of the game. Bob purchased many of my paintings. He loved the game very much. Without his purchases and commissions it would have been very difficult for me to pay for tuition. His purchases were very instrumental in me being able to graduate from college. I will forever be grateful for his contribution to my education.'

'Bob was a real gentleman and a credit to the journalism profession. I had the real pleasure of playing soccer with Bob on the terrific Blades club teams of the early 1990's. Bob was the most enthusiastic player on the team AND the best writer! When I left SA Bob penned a hilarious "so long" story for my going away party. I still have it. RIP, Bob.'

'He was our English teacher our Senior year--the first Senior class--at James Madison High School. One of my favorites, to be sure. It was always fun trying to stump him with the dictionary (no one ever did). Very sorry to hear of his passing, and praying for his family at this time.'

'Bob was such a generous man. His care and concern for animals was amazing. You'll be greatly missed.'

'My condolences to the Richmond family. I remember Mr.Richmond from the hallways of Burbank highschool, we always said hello to each other in passing. May he rest in peace knowing he touched many lives.'

'I will miss Bob. A very kind, decent man.'

'Rest in peace, old friend. The world is a better place for having had you in it. 

Frank Martinez III, Ph.D.'

'John, Xavier and family - Bob was such a big part of our family for many years. We are so very sorry to hear of his passing. I loved listening to Bob and Daddy discuss the world at large. I learned much from Bob and will always cherish his unique take on life. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Kate & Robert Crosby, John & Pat McConnell & Jane & Mickey Wakely'

'I am so grateful for you allowing me to be a part of your life. Our time was short but every day was a journey. I'll never forget your kind heart and spirit. The memory that will always stick in my head is when we made one of our many late night trips to Whataburger. On the way back to your house there were many deer grazing and walking in the street. You asked me to pull over and allow them to graze without startling them. We waited over 20 minutes until they cleared. Your love for animals was amazing. There is not many people like you, your spirit will forever live on. I Love You Bob!!!'

'Bob Richmond led his class in applause. A smile of delight remained glued to my face all that day.
I'd signed up for Bob's Memoir class at ALIR (The Academy of Learning in Retirement) determined to try out my writing skills but fearful of a rejection similar to that I'd received from a creative writing class professor at U.T in the 1950's. He'd returned my initial undertaking with This Is Pulp Fiction scratched across the top in red. I had no idea what that meant, so turned to a dictionary definition of pulp fiction--
sensationalized, poor quality writing. Mortified, I dropped the class and never wrote another story. 
Fifty years later it was time to try again. An empty seat near the back of Bob's ALIR classroom beckoned. The topic for next week is autumn,' he said. Write anything you'd like about autumn. Next Monday you can read your story to the class. Accepting the challenge, I wrote an adolescent memory of an autumn event in my life. The following week, with quivering voice I stood and read to the class. 
Bob clapped. The entire class followed his lead. 
I didn't know then that in Bob's class every student's story received his applause. By the time I realized I was not unique, it was easy to share the accolade. After all, I'd become a writer. Thanks Bob.
Janet Alyn'

'My condolence to the family and friends.'

'Best Film/English class I ever had! (Churchill 1979) I thought of this class everytime I watched one of the films we covered! Via con dios Mr. Richmond.'

'Mr.Richmond was my film teacher at Churchill. I remember him and that class very well. I don't recall much from my high school days, so Mr Richmond must have been very special. My condolences to his family. I pray for God's peace for all of those who mourn the passing of this life that seemed well lived.'

'As another of Mr. Richmond's former students (Churchill, 1978), I carry his memory as a great blessing. Dedicated to his craft, thoughtful, encouraging, and gentle in his approach, he guided us into more skillful writing. Through his Film and Literature class he taught us to love film critically and find within it messages more deep than mere story. Bob Richmond, too, carried a beauty of character more profound than his humble exterior. I shall never forget him and always be grateful for his gifts to me.'

'He was my teacher in 1979 film studies class at Churchill. Such a great teacher, I will never forget that he introduce me to the old classics that I love to this day. Thank you Mr.Richmond,may you rest in peace'

'Mr. Richmond was one of my English Teachers my senior year at Churchill. I can honestly say I will never forget him as a teacher or his class. He truly engaged his students and challenged us to think creatively and outside the box. He was a very good man! Rest In Peace Mr. Richmond'

'My Condolences to the family of Robert Richmond. Bob was a great colleague at Churchill High School. I will always remember his smile, his kindness, and his quick wit. Norma C. Rodriguez'

'Bob Richmond was an amazing person that I had the pleasure of working with at ALIR for 11 years. I am really going to miss him. My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of his.'

'Deepest condolences to friends and family.'

'It was an honor to work with him at Palo Alto College. We had many great conversations over lunch in the school cafeteria. He had a sharp intellect, but more importantly, always a nice smile and a memorable laugh.'

'Bob was admired by both colleagues and students for his intellectual vigor and determination to bring originality to his teaching. I remember him best, of course, as good friend and comrade for the cause of shaking the system into a sense of self awareness and moving it toward a more challenging curriculum. He introduced me to a number of books and scholars that guided me in my own projects as a union president to build consensus for school reforms aiming at beefing up the curriculum and establishing a more effective school structure that reflected a culture respectful of learning for its own sake. Not the starry-eyed sort, he expressed through his newspaper columns and personal conversations ideas that reflected a welding of theory and empirical evidence. I will miss his humor, the way he talked about his favorite sport, soccer, the excited manner in which he talked about books, and those times we'd just sit and have a few beers as his dogs ran around us. He, Tom Lessner, and I had a number of chats at his place, them smoking cigars, and me having a beer between coughing bouts. Right up to our last meeting Bob was still talking with pride about his students--grownups taking a writing class with him--and their family stories. Considering how he seemed to turn up his energy level when sharing his students' writing projects, that was clearly one of his favorite things to teach in his last years. I also remember how he took a fascination for well-written obituaries. He shared some really good ones on occasion. I especially remember that he focused on the good qualities in people, but took on tyrants whose personal need to maintain authority overrode the mission of the school to maintain an environment that nurtured learning for its own sake. Those who knew him well remember that he could intimidate the intimidators. He was one of those rare few who had the courage of his convictions and served as an example for those who needed comfort in fighting their own battles against petty tyrants. I will miss Bob so much.'

'Bob Richmond taught me Film and Literature at Churchill in 1976. I dont remember too many of my teachers from Churchill but Mr. Richmond I always remembered. He made us watch Citizen Kane, Nanook of the North and a movie about the decemation (sp?) of the American Buffalo. I love him and am so thankful he was a teacher of mine.'

'Farewell to an esteemed colleague and friend and tennis buddy. Mike and Ellie Seiferth'

'Love and prayers to Bob's family. So appreciative of his friendship with my mom all these years.'

OBITUARY

Robert J. Richmond

October 1, 1943 – April 3, 2017

Porter Loring Mortuary - McCullough

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