Richard Milton Menefee

Richard Milton “Coach” Menefee, Jr., age 69, passed away on August 28, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. Born on April 4, 1956, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Richard lived a life marked by creativity, mentorship, and unwavering faith.

A graduate of Southside High School in Fort Wayne, Richard went on to attend Motlow State Community College in Tullahoma, Tennessee. In 1990, he further honed his craft by graduating from Scarborough Enterprises Rug Manufacturing School. His talent as a custom area rug maker was widely recognized and reflected his artistic spirit and dedication to craftsmanship.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard was best known as “Coach” – a title he wore with pride and purpose. For 35 years, he devoted himself to coaching boys’ baseball across numerous organizations including Brierwood Athletic Association, San Jose Athletic Association, Mandarin Sports Association, and at the middle school level with Southside Middle School, Darnell Cookman Middle School, and Fort Caroline Middle School. He also coached at Wolfson and Paxon High Schools. Through these decades of service on the field, Richard became a mentor and role model to countless young athletes who affectionately called him “Coach.”

In May 1993, Richard was honored with the Arlington Optimist Club Respect for Law Award – a testament to his integrity and commitment to community values.

Richard accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and remained steadfast in his faith throughout life’s challenges. Even during times of illness, he prayed for God’s will to be done – a reflection of his deep spiritual conviction.

He is survived by his beloved wife Rhonda of 47 years; daughter Leah Menefee; son Jared Menefee (Patty); and grandchildren Kaylie, Kendra, Alana, Allison, Matthew, Evelyn and Eleanor. He is also remembered by his siblings: Brian Menefee (Barb) of Flower Mound, Texas; Dean Menefee (Conella); Glenn Menefee (Mindi); and Lugena Platt (Dave) of Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Richard Menefee, Sr. and Marcella; brothers Wayde Menefee and Eric Menefee; and his father- and mother-in-law Dr. Stanford Kruse and Evelyn.

A talented artist whose work extended beyond the canvas into every aspect of his life – from the rugs he crafted to the players he coached – Richard leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, and faith.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.