Obituary for Richard Irvin Wallis

May 6, 1951 – September 8, 2025

Richard was born in Louisville, Kentucky. When he was three years old, his family moved to Orlando, Florida, where he grew up and graduated from Colonial High School in 1969. He immediately joined the United States Army and served in Vietnam. He was wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart. The remainder of his service was spent in Germany.

After leaving the Army, Richard met and married his wife, Ann, on November 24, 1973. They were married for 52 years, raised two daughters, and adored their four grandchildren. They lived for 16 years in Orlando and 28 years in Riverview, Florida, before retiring to Zephyrhills in 2016.

Throughout his life, Richard held several jobs—including window installation and construction—before establishing his career as a marine surveyor and oil and gasoline inspector.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Barbara Wallis. He is survived by his wife, Ann Wallis; daughters Heather Marie Wallis and Elizabeth Marie Jarrell (Josh); and his grandchildren, Damien Richard Cruz, Trevor Jesus Cruz, Madison Anabel-Marie Jarrell, and Kennedy Ireland Jarrell. Also surviving are his two sisters and countless family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Richard loved bowling, golfing, and playing cards. He lived his life for his family, who always came first—even when he lived by his favorite motto: "I do what I want."