Richard Baumgardner Leggitt

Richard Baumgardner Leggitt passed away peacefully on February 6th surrounded by the love of family and the prayers of many friends.

Born on September 21, 1941, the free-spirited and adventurous Richard was raised in the dusty Texas panhandle. The only son and the youngest of four, he was raised solely by a devoted mom, a school teacher, after his dad passed away at the age of five.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves while attending Southern Methodist University as a journalism major. He began his lifelong writing career at the Hereford Brand in Hereford, Texas and later worked as a reporter for the United Press International where he covered pivotal moments in American history, including the civil rights movement and the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

With ample talent and a sense of purpose, Richard segued into the political arena, serving on the communications team of Governor Winfield Dunn of Tennessee and as Communications Director for Governor James S. Gilmore of Virginia. He also played a role in the election of two U.S. Senators and several members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Those who knew him loved hearing about his adventures, and sometimes misadventures from childhood, and his exciting experiences as a reporter and politico.

He strove to give his children a good life and expand their horizons through travel, support of their higher education, and by providing an example of a strong work ethic.

Richard's hobbies included boating, reading, and being a passionate supporter of the Washington Redskins.

A loyal and loving husband, and a proud father and grandfather, he's survived by Deborah, his wife of 44 years, and five children—Rich Leggitt, Lance Leggitt, Laci Alison, Wendi Morrison, and Molli Leggitt Standridge—and his nine grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please send prayers and condolences to www.barrettfh.com. Stories, reflections, and photos that the family will incorporate into a book to honor him should be sent to: RememberingRichardLeggitt@gmail.com

To share a memory or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.barrettfh.com

Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland | (706) 865-3101