Richard E Kavanaugh, Jr (August 10, 1932 - September 05, 2013)

In loving memory of
Richard E Kavanaugh, Jr
  • August 10, 1932
  • -
  • September 05, 2013

  • Obituary
  • Sign Tribute Wall
  • Light a Candle
  • Send Flowers
  • Photos

Obituary

A family man and a loyal Florida Gator, Richard E. Kavanaugh, Jr. died peacefully at home on September 5, 2013. Born in Savannah Georgia to Richard and Mary Barry Kavanaugh on August 10, 1932, he moved to Jacksonville, FL at six weeks old. He grew up in St. Petersburg and attended St. Paul's High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and was a Radioman Seaman who served during the Korean War. He was later awarded a National Defense Service Medal. After an honorary discharge, he attended the University of Florida and graduated with a B.A. degree. He moved with his family to Central Florida and had a successful career in commercial insurance. Richard and Joan retired to New Smyrna Beach in 2000. He loved his Gator football team and was a loyal booster and season ticket holder for over fifty years. Richard is survived by his wife, Joan Barnes Kavanaugh and seven children: Richard (Flora); Ken (Cindy), Mike (Pam); DeAnn Sheldon, Daniel (Courtney), Brian Morris (Mary Jo) and Mary Waldroff (Scott). He is also survived by ten beautiful grandchildren whom he adored: Katelyn, Kristin, Conor, Alexa, Courtney, Jack, Sean, Drew, Maia and Keena. Richard is also survived by a sister, Joan Ruhlin (Bill), and two brothers Kevin (Carol) and Barry, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  A funeral mass will be celebrated by Reverend John S. Murray at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in New Smyrna Beach on Friday, September 20 at 10:30 AM with a reception immediately following.
Send flowers to the family to show you care. Order Now

Tribute Wall

Leave a reply



Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. judith drysdale says:
    19 Sep 2013
    Dear Joni and the Kavanaugh gang....I wish I could be there with you to celebrate Dick's life. He was a bright light in my life as well as for my family and never failed to bring a smile. God bless him and all of you. Judith (Chopp) Drysdale

  2. Dave Ruhlin says:
    18 Sep 2013
    I agree 100% with what Michele had to say. Joni, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm sure you must be experiencing feelings that may well be uncomfortable, to sat the least. They are probably normal, though. I know my Mom is ery saddened, as am I also. I regret that so much time has passed since I last saw Uncle Dick. But I do remember him very well. I thought of him as a great person. I felt truely lucky to have such a cool Uncle.I am glad I am able to come to say good bye to him. Hey, you know, it'll be SO great later on when we will all be able to reunite. What a time that will be!

  3. Eric Ruhlin says:
    17 Sep 2013
    To Aunt Joni and all the family, our prayers & condolences are with you. When I think about growing up in our family, one of the reminiscences that comes to mind is Florida Trips -- and Uncle Dick was always there to welcome all of us Ruhlins for a fun-filled trip. It's something I'll never forget -- fond memories.

    Love,
    Eric, Dhenu & Jiya

  4. Michele Ruhlin Kenion says:
    17 Sep 2013
    Dear Joani and all of Uncle Dick's children,
    My thoughts and prayers are with you all, and I wish you comfort after this loss. I have such fun memories of Uncle Dick. He was a kind, loving man, and always a pleasure to be with. As a kids, we Ruhlins used to visit his/your home, and were always welcomed and made to feel at home - and it was always great fun! I have very fond memories of the Kavanaugh clan, all of you. I know Uncle Dick will be sorely missed by all of you, and by his brothers and my mom. I know there is much love for him and he'll stay alive that way in so many hearts.
    Warm condolences,
    Michele

  5. Jo Ann Kuhn says:
    16 Sep 2013
    Joni and Family, So sorry to hear of your loss. He is at peace now and watching over all of you. I remember when you were parishioners of St. Mary Magdalen. Praying for you. Jo Ann Kuhn

  6. Peggy says:
    10 Sep 2013
    Joan, I know you miss Richard so much! I still find it hard to believe. Your faith will keep you strong. Mother, Dad, & Richard are going to help you be strong. I will miss Richard. He was always strong, dependable, and good for a funny story. May twenty-eight years of marriage give you many wonderful memories! Each day will get a little better. We all loved Richard, and we love you.

  7. Bobby, Libby, and Lauren says:
    10 Sep 2013
    Joan: Richard was a great man with a good sense of humor. We always could count on him for a funny joke or story. He was also a true loyal Gator. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

  8. Meyer Ghobrial says:
    07 Sep 2013
    4 Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
    - Matthew 5:4

    Condolences to the Kavanaugh Family!!! We will miss Mr. Kavanaugh - but we will always cherish the memories.

    The Ghobrial Family

  9. Raychel Slater says:
    07 Sep 2013
    Joni, I am so sorry for your loss. I will be keeping you and the rest of the family in my thoughts and prayers.
    God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. (Psalms 46:1 NKJV)

Send an E-Card

Please select an e-card

    Required fields are marked *
     

    Note: The code below resets with every submit of the form
    captcha