Obituary
Richard “Dick” Randolph Mead, age 73, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. He is survived by his wife, JoAnn Palmer Mead, of Orlando, Florida; his daughters, Erin Yorkgitis (Brian) of Jacksonville, Florida, Jaime Bressan (Michael) of Sarasota, Florida, and grandchildren Amelia, Maddy, Kia, Kyra, Olivia, and Eli.
Dick was born in Seattle, Washington, to parents Richard Seymour Mead and Maxine Elliot Teater. He graduated from Queen Anne High School in Seattle, Washington. Dick went on to attend the United States Coast Guard Academy. There he met his loving wife, JoAnn of 52 years. They were set up on a blind date by Chaplain Paul Johnson and JoAnn’s mother, Amelia Palmer. After graduation he had a distinguished career rising to the rank of Captain. During his early years of service, he was selected to attend the Naval Postgraduate School earning his Master of Science in 1978. While serving in the United States Coast Guard, Dick received many decorations, medals and campaign ribbons such as Meritorious Service, CG Commendation, CG achievement to name a few. He proudly served his nation until August of 1998 when he retired from the Coast Guard to Winter Park, Florida. After retirement he continued his service to others by working for the Society of Saint Andrew (SOSA) as the Florida director for the nonprofit gleaning network.
Dick was an incredibly faithful Christian attending All Saints Church since moving to Winter Park. He had great passion in helping others as a member of All Saints Healing Ministry. He enjoyed deepening his faith through Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) and a weekly prayer group with fellow Coasties.
Throughout his life he enjoyed ice cream, athletics, card games, traveling and summers in St. Augustine.
Dick will be remembered for his love for Jesus, his family, his service to others, and quick wit.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in Dick’s names to All Saint Church Healing Ministry or SOSA.
A celebration of Dick’s life will be on December 10th at 3:00PM at All Saints Church, Winter Park, Florida prior to interment at Arlington National Cemetery.
Shirley
Our hearts are broken and we are so sad. Dick was certainly a bright , amazingly, funny and kind man who we loved very much. He was our “Doodle”. Sending healing prayers and comfort hugs to all.
Our hearts are broken for you. Dick (Doodle) will be missed by all but God called him home and now he is at peace. He was a wonderful, kind and funny gentleman. We loved him very much. Our condolences are with you all. Linda and Bob
Scott Mayhew
I know that the pain I am feeling at losing my best friend pales in comparison to what you are experiencing. Dick was a remarkable man. He achieved much in his life and left a legacy of caring and compassion for others. His classmates and friends are all better people because Dick touched their lives.