Richard Sexton

Richard John Sexton, Sr., 84, of Panama City, Florida, passed away Sunday, November 19, 2023, at his residence. Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1939 to Clarence and Ruby Sexton. Richard attended West Fulton High School, class of 1957, before joining the United States Air Force. Following his service, Richard worked for Georgia Power Company as a dedicated Steam Heat Engineer for 30 years. Following retirement he enjoyed time with his family, boating, fishing and travelling with his wife. They relocated from Dallas, Georgia to Panama City Beach, Florida. Richard loved being out on the gulf, fishing and boating with his family.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby Sexton Woodward and Clarence Eugene Sexton; two brothers, Nicholas Sexton, and Michael Sexton and a sister, Jean Sexton Butler.

Richard met the love of his life, Mary Roberts Sexton in 1962 at her father's store in Carey Park. Excited to start their lives together, the two were married on June 20, 1964. Richard and Mary were excited to start a family of their own, their children meant the world to them. Together they raised four children, two nieces and one brother. Richard leaves behind Suzie (Glenn) Allen of Douglasville, Georgia, Stephanie (Terry) Origer of Panama City, Florida, Ricky Sexton of Dallas, Georgia, Betsy Stephens of Hixson, Tennessee, Bill (Lela) Roberts of Dallas, Georgia, Annette (Branson) Locklear of Rockmart, Georgia, and Donna (Troy) Waites of Dallas, Georgia.

Though he loved being on the water, Richard was a devoted grandparent. He treasured his time with his grandchildren; taking them camping, fishing and boating. He always had a joke or funny story to share with the kids.

Richard is also survived by his grandchildren, Alex (Magan) Rainwater, Nicholas Rainwater, Patrick Allen, Sophia Allen, Hanna (Eric) Smith, Dakode (Nick) Walker, Cayla (James) Couch, Landen Origer, Cameron Hammond, Colten Hammond, Chloe Hammond, Jakob Sexton, Summer Sexton, Isabella Sexton; plus 12 great grandchildren he loved to spend time with. He enjoyed watching them play and feed the birds in his backyard.

He is also survived by sister Merrie Beth (Larry) Lucas and a brother, Houston (Wendy) Milner.

Richard will always be remembered for his dedication to his family and his love of being on the ocean. We will always hear his catch phrases that will make us laugh and will be repeated for generations to come. We couldn't have asked for a better father. He will be missed everyday. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family will receive friends at Clark Funeral Home on Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral Service for Richard will be held at Clark Funeral Home on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at 3:00 PM with Pastor Troy Hall officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Richard's honor to the American Cancer Society.

Clark Funeral Home is honored to care for the Sexton family during this difficult time.