Richard Nixon

Richard Dale Nixon, 94, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2026, having spent 94 years on this earth. He was born on March 28, 1932, to Armel Glen and Marciel Nevada Nixon.

Richard was baptized as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ at Butternut Creek, just west of Collett, Indiana. From that day forward, he started for the Kingdom and never looked back. He lived his life not as a perfect man, but under the grace of God.

In September 1950, Richard married Norma Jean Somers, beginning a marriage that lasted 53 years until her passing on March 23, 2004. Together, they raised four children: Sara, Ed, Dixie and Bettie.

Richard graduated from Gov. I.P. Gray High School in 1950, where he played both basketball and baseball. He was the last surviving member of his graduating class of 1950. He and his son spent 40 years playing softball together in town and church leagues, making hundreds of friends and countless memories along the way.

Richard devoted his life to farming in Jefferson Township, Jay County, beginning in 1950. His dedication to agriculture earned him the Outstanding Young Farmer Award in the 1960’s. He was also a charter member of the Portland FFA chapter, a distinction he treasured so much that he still kept his original membership card. In 2002, he was inducted into the FFA Hall of Fame. He also proudly served on the Jay County REMC Board for 42 years.

His faith remained an important part of his life. Richard had been a member of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church since 1959. Earlier in life, he attended the church in Collett and later attended church while farming east of Portland from 1955 to 1958.

Richard was always positive, hardly ever complained, and was ready to try new things. He had a special ability to see the possibilities in what could be done rather than focusing on what couldn’t. Throughout the years, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors and even strangers whenever he could.

One of his favorite pastimes was selling property (or as he affectionately called it, “junk”) at the tractor and engine show. While he enjoyed the shows, what he enjoyed most was the people he met and the conversations he shared. His accomplishments were many, but what mattered most to him was caring about people. He didn’t always agree with everyone, but he always cared.

Richard’s presence will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but those who knew him take comfort in knowing he has found his new home with Jesus, joining those who went before him.

He is survived by his four children: Sara Sanders (husband Steve), Ed Nixon (wife Debi), Dixie Franklin (her late husband Greg), and Bettie Caldwell (husband Chris).

Six grandchildren: Chris, Tracy, Bridget, Amanda, Marcie and Audrey

15 great grandchildren: Austin, Aleigha, Ruby, Houstin, Anna, Evan, Ashton, Aiden, Ben, Gracie, Peyton, Amelia, Addie, Nixon, and Florence.

5 great-great grandchildren: Leo, Milo, Shay, DJ and Vivian

He is also survived by his brother, Tom Nixon and sister, Wanda Eley

His life was one of faith, hard work, family, friendship, and a willingness to help anyone who needed it. He leaves behind generations of family, hundred of friends, and memories that will live on for years to come.

His memory will be cherished, his presence deeply missed, and his legacy carried on through the many lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026 from 3-7 p.m. at Williamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland. Private services to celebrate Dick’s life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026 with burial at New Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed towards the Jay County Conservation Club.