Richard Taylor Spradling was born on July 24, 1947, in Dalhart, Texas, and passed away on September 8, 2022, after a long battle with heart disease. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jean Schafer Spradling, his son Danny Spradling and wife Lesia, his daughter Debby Essary and husband Brad, his grandchildren Rachel Essary, Julie Hodges, and husband Matt, Christine Essary, Emily Hevron, and husband Zach, and Chance Spradling, and wife GeGe. Richard was predeceased by his parents Bill and Nellie Spradling of Greenville, Texas and older brother Joe Bill Spradling of Leonard, Texas. Richard is also survived by his brothers David Spradling and wife, Jacqueline of Richardson, Larry Spradling and wife, Shirley of Rockwall, Mark Spradling and wife, Nette, of Clermont, FL, sister Judge Jean Ann Spradling of Houston, sister in law Mary Lou Spradling of Leonard, and a host of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
As a teenager and young man, Richard enjoyed calf roping, training horses, showing his cattle and sheep, and working on his pickup truck. In college, he was a successful roper winning numerous rodeo calf roping events. He graduated from Wolfe City High School in 1965 and 4 years later, from East Texas State University with a teaching degree. He was the Agriculture Teacher at Blue Ridge High School before leaving a few years later to manage both the Cross N Ranch and Riverby Ranch near Honey Grove, Texas.
In 1973, Richard was introduced to Jean Schafer by his sister Jean Ann, and they married in 1974. Following the sale of both ranches, Richard, Jean, and their children moved to Paris, Texas, along with about 3 dozen horses that they had accumulated. During this time he began his over 40 year career as a salesman. In addition to his sales career, Richard and Jean spent over 18 years working their concession trailer on the weekends with her family’s carnival traveling to many fairs and special celebrations. In 2011, Richard and Jean opened a wedding venue in Paris called Stoney Acres which operated until recently when his health declined.
Over the years Richard has accumulated many friends with his outgoing, friendly, “never met a stranger” personality. With his unique communication skills, he has always been the problem solver of our family. He was loved by all and will be greatly missed.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM Wednesday, September 14, 2022 in the chapel of Fry-Gibbs Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery.
