Richard Lee Jessup

The world has lost a remarkable soul, as Richard Jessup, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, quietly departed this life on October 25, 2026. Born on February 8, 1943, in Freeport, Illinois, Richard's life was a testament to love, dedication, and perseverance, even as he faced a long battle with cancer, surrounded by the warmth and support of his family. Richard was the cherished son of William and Marian Jessup, who predeceased him, along with his brother Karl Jessup. He is survived by his devoted wife, Elizabeth, affectionately known as Betty, with whom he shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. Their union, which began on December 22, 1962, was a cornerstone of Richard's life, filled with love and mutual respect. Together, they raised three children: Todd (Jane), Jeff (Allison), and Torre (Daryl). Richard's legacy also lives on through his sister, Carol Jessup, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. Richard's journey began in Permian High School, where he graduated in 1961, setting the stage for a successful career. He started his professional life at W.C. Norris in Odessa, Texas, before relocating to Houston in 1969. His career took a significant turn when he joined FMC, where he forged lifelong friendships with John Bennatt and Jim Patillo. Together, they founded BAJCO Industries, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. Even after selling the company and retiring, Richard's passion for work led him to join Bray Valve, where he relished his role as a regular employee, free from the pressures of ownership. Outside of his professional pursuits, Richard was a man of diverse interests. A faithful reader of the Bible, he began each day with a devotional, grounding himself in spirituality. In his younger years, he was an avid golfer and a passionate football fan, albeit with a love/hate relationship with the Texans. Richard will be remembered for his kind-hearted, selfless nature, and his unwavering loyalty. He was a great listener, always making others feel valued and heard. His genuine kindness and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. His devotion to his family was unparalleled, and his quiet strength and caring heart will forever be cherished. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Richard's life at a service on November 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Klein Memorial Park, located at 32509 Hwy 249, Pinehurst, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of Richard's battle. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Halcyon Hospice for their unwavering support and care, with a special thank you to Luciano, whose presence was a true blessing during Richard's final days. Richard Jessup's life was a beacon of love and strength, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.