Rev. Dr. Richard V. Beesley passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2006, at the age of 95. He was born in Vincennes, IN, the son of Oscar V. Beesley and Ruth (Reel) Beesley.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Naomi (Rehwald) Beesley, son Bruce A. Beesley and his wife Janice, Washington, IN, and son Brian “Keith” Beesley and his wife Susie Beesley of Noblesville, IN. His grandchildren include Christopher S. Beesley of West Chester, OH, Brian K. Beesley II and his wife Luisa of Tampa, FL, and Scott T. Beesley and his wife Jordan of Fishers, IN. His great grandchildren include Samuel V. Beesley, Mia F. Beesley, and Brooks T. Beesley, and a great granddaughter on the way. He is also survived by his sister Virginia Gordon and sister-in-law Rosalie Bloebaum.

Richard began teaching Sunday School while in high school. He graduated from Lincoln High School, earned an associate degree from Vincennes University, bachelor's and master's degrees from Indiana State University, and a Master of Divinity from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, where he won the Grafton Trophy for outstanding preaching. He earned his doctorate degree in Education from the University of Missouri. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity after years of service at Oakland City University.

Richard served in the United States Army as an artillery officer. He began his teaching career at Lincoln High School. He pastored First Presbyterian Church in Mt. Vernon, IN, then Westminster Presbyterian Church in Versailles, MO. He was a professor at Wheaton College for three years. At Oakland City University he served as Academic Dean, Professor of Religious Studies, Executive Vice President, and later on the Board of Trustees. For 11 years he was pastor of Northside Congregational Church in Evansville, IN, and 12 years as pastor of Wabash Presbyterian Church in Allendale, IL.

After retirement, he continued teaching until two weeks ago by leading Bible Studies and Sunday School classes, most recently at Wabash Community Church and on Facebook.

Richard was and is yet a forgiven sinner, saved by the grace of God through the merits of Jesus Christ.

Funeral services celebrating Richard’s life will begin at 11:00 am on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Wabash Community Church, Vincennes, IN, 1033 North 10th Street, Vincennes, IN. A visitation and luncheon will follow from 1:30 until 2:30 pm at Blossom Hill Orchard, 2697 E. State Rd. 61, Vincennes, IN 47591. Richard will be entombed at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Online memories may be sent to goodwinsievers.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church of your choice. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Richard and his family.