Richard L. Becker 1945-2025

NEWTON FALLS — Richard L. “Bud” Becker, 80, passed away peacefully into eternal rest, Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital.
He was born June 17, 1945, in Toledo, the son of Louis Fredrick Becker and Anna Iris Stewart Becker.
Bud graduated in 1963 from Macomber Vocational High School and lived in several cities across the country before making Newton Falls his home for the past 38 years.
On Aug. 3, 1963, Bud married his high school sweetheart, Teri Ann Massie. Together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage filled with love and devotion.
Bud was meticulous and attentive to detail, believing that if things were going to be done, they should be done the “right way.” He brought this focus to his successful career in the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served his country for 25 years, including during the Vietnam War. He retired Jan. 31, 1990, with the rank of senior chief storekeeper. Following his distinguished military career, Bud worked for the Department of Defense as a systems analyst for 16 years, retiring June 30, 2007.
A man of faith and community, Bud was a member of Newton Falls First Church of God, and a Life Member of VFW Post #3332 and American Legion Post #236, both in Newton Falls.
He enjoyed golfing, bowling, traveling and visiting casinos, and was a passionate baseball fan, cheering on his beloved Cleveland Guardians for many years.
He never missed a birthday and always greeted friends and family with a warm hug or friendly handshake. Everyone who knew Bud loved him for his thoughtfulness, generosity and fun nature.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Teri; his son, Richard Lee Becker II; and his brother, David T. English.
He is survived by his children, Trina (Michael) McGivern of Perrysburg, Dee (Ron) Howard of Newton Falls and Richard (Jenny) Becker III of Northwood; his brother, Jack (Sharon) English of Charlotte, North Carolina; seven grandchildren, Summer (Reno), Seth (Heather), Simeon (Molly), Noelle (Dave), Kelly, Mikayla and Kristi (Cody); and eight great-grandchildren, Caleb, Aiden, Carson, Kennedy, Carter, Neeley, Graham and Kollins.
Cremation has taken place.
Family and friends are invited to visitation 9:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at Newton Falls First Church of God, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jennifer Dorn officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Newton Falls First Church of God, 426 W. Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444.
Arrangements have been entrusted to James Funeral Home, 8 E. Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444, 330-872-5440. Family and friends may view Bud’s obituary or send condolences online at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com.
(special notice)