Beloved dad, Richard Lee Jessell passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, with his two daughters by his side at The Windsor Assisted Living in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. Born on July 7, 1940 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to John Adam Jessell and Carrie Hoffman Jessell. His family relocated to Punta Gorda, Florida in 1952. After attending Charlotte High School, he joined the Army in 1958. He served in Korea and was stationed in Texas until his honorable discharge in 1962. After the service, he moved back home to Punta Gorda, Florida.

Richard was a man of many talents and had several businesses, including Richard’s Hair Styles and The Blouse House in Punta Gorda, Florida. He also worked in plumbing and glass installation before relocating to Boynton Beach, Florida to work for Motorola in 1984. He enjoyed his retirement years in Dunnellon, Florida.

Beyond his professional life, he also served as a Punta Gorda Volunteer Firefighter and a Palm Beach County Auxiliary State Trooper. He was an active member of the American Legion, Eagles, Elks, Moose and VFW, always committed to supporting his community and those around him.

Richard had a lifelong passion for motorcycles riding his Gold Wing and Harley-Davidson bikes. He enjoyed spending time at his second home in Maggie Valley, North Carolina and riding his motorcycles in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Known as a friend to all, Richard had an incredible ability to connect with people, offering a warm smile and a helping hand to anyone in need. His generous spirit and genuine kindness left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He lived a life full of adventure, kindness, and friendship. He always had a story to tell and words of wisdom to share.

Richard's memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May his legacy of love, loyalty, and adventure continue to inspire us all.

A devoted father, Richard, is survived by his two daughters, Janet (Dave) Becher and Tracy Shamonsky, and granddaughters Katie Becher and Abbie Becher, who were the lights of his life. Also survived by his first wife, Beverly Caswell, brother Edward (Gail) Jessell, and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, John Adam Jessell and Carrie Hoffman Jessell, spouse Elaine Benenson Jessell of twenty-five years, brothers William (Doris) Jessell, and James (Ann) Jessell and sister Ruth (Jack) Hare and son-in-law, Kevin Shamonsky.

The family requests any memorial contributions be made to Tidewellfoundation.org in honor of Richard Jessell in lieu of flowers.

Memorial Keepers (1)

Richard Lee Jessell