Kindness is simple. It comes down to a few words. Kindness is the giving of one’s self for the betterment of others. That’s what it means to me — Richard McIntire
Earlier this month, “Richard’s Rock Garden of Kindness” — a heartfelt addition beside the Community Garden — was unveiled in front of the Salvation Army in downtown Paris.
The garden was named in honor of Richard McIntire, whose ongoing legacy of kindness and community service continues to uplift and inspire those around him.
“I had no idea they were going to dedicate it in my name,” said McIntire. “My late wife worked at the Salvation Army when she passed, so I continued to help out with maintenance things, loading baled clothes, things like that. The girls put the rock garden together, and it took me off my feet — I didn’t know they were doing that.”
As a way to show their appreciation in a lasting way, the rock garden was dedicated to McIntire, named Richard’s Rock Garden of Kindness, in his honor.
“Many of you may have met Richard while he was volunteering, but if you’ve ever worked alongside him, you know he’s more than just a volunteer. He’s a steady hand, the strong back, and the generous heart behind so much of what makes that garden thrive,” said organizers. “Time and time again, Richard has shown up — not for praise — but simply because he cares. He has given his time, his energy, and even his own money to make sure the garden continues to bloom, season after season.”
Last year, the Labor of Love Pergola was dedicated in memory of Sheila Wilcox, McIntire’s late wife and mother of Megan Myers, who dedicated years of time and service to the Salvation Army.
“My cousin and I built the pergola last year and have been working on building a parking area but ran out of rock for now,” said McIntire. “Hopefully, we can get some more in and finish it. We built the sign and got it put in the ground, and we’ve had a new crew of ladies take it over, and they’ve done a great job getting donations and getting vegetables planted.”
McIntire said many local volunteers and businesses came together to make the garden happen, and vegetables are now starting to come out.
“We will have tomatoes, eggplants, cantaloupe, okra, and more. We have a lot more ideas — it’ll just take a little time.”
In the meantime, everyone can enjoy Richard’s Rock Garden of Kindness — a place, like him, that stands strong, offers peace, and quietly reminds us of the power of caring for one another.
