Richard Lee Besser

Richard Lee Besser passed from this life on September 7, 2026, at the age of 76 in Cleveland, Oklahoma.

Richard was born on November 14, 1949, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he was the son of Darrell Richard and Georgia Belle (Gibbons) Besser. Richard grew up and attended school in Cleveland, where he graduated with the Class of 1968. Following high school, Richard attended Okmulgee Tech, learning the trade as a welder. Richard joined Local Union 205 as a welder. He worked on the Alaskan Pipeline, 3 Mile Island in Pennsylvania, and throughout the United States for many years. In the early 1990's, he gained employment as a pipefitter at Sun Oil Refinery in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In 1993, Richard married Deloris Kathleen (Bailey). After several years at Sun Oil, Richard began working as an inspector and retired in 2019.

Richard was a funny, entertaining, and one-of-a-kind man who brought laughter and conversation wherever he went. He had many hobbies and interests that he enjoyed throughout his life, including horses, fighting chickens, Bantam chickens, coon hunting, playing pool, socializing, traveling, and enjoying a good meal out, especially barbecue and ribs. Richard loved telling his old work stories and sharing memories of his time in Alaska. He was known for his trademark overalls and pocket T-shirts, which became a familiar part of who he was. He enjoyed traveling and making memories at places such as the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Branson, Sequoyah National Park, Washington State, and the Grand Tetons in Wyoming. In his quieter moments, Richard enjoyed watching old Westerns and listening to Status Quo and ZZ Top. Some of his favorite television shows included The Madison, Lonesome Dove, and Yellowstone. Richard was a man with a great sense of humor who could entertain those around him with his stories, wit, wisdom, and vast knowledge. He will be remembered not only for the things he loved, but for the laughter, memories, and special moments he shared with family and friends.

Survivors are his wife Deloris, two children Carrie Christensen, Darrell Besser, grandchildren Cyrus Christensen, Matthew Besser, Tytus Christensen, Zachery Besser, Tre Christensen and a host of other relatives and friends. Richard was preceded in death by his parents Darrell and Georgia Besser and one sister Georgia Owens.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 pm, Sunday, September 27, 2026, at his home 433 South Blacksmith Road in Cleveland. Chapman-Black Funeral Home will be handling the arrangements. Friends and family may visit an online guest book and memorial page for Richard at www.chapman-black.com.