Richard Leon Dewees

Richard Leon Dewees, 87, of Lebanon, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at his home surrounded by family.

He was born November 8, 1937, in Mount Ayr, IN, to the late Lawrence Alvin and Jessie Emma (Hall) Dewees. Richard was raised in Rensselaer, growing up in a home of 11 children where he learned the value of selfless love and sacrifice, which would set the example for the love and life he would lead up until his final days. 

Richard married Mary Jane Hughes on March 6, 1960, at the United Methodist Church in Lebanon. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and cared tirelessly for his family. Richard was a faithful servant of Christ. Everything in his life exemplified his love for the Lord.

Richard was well known in Boone County for the countless years he worked at Apple Shoe Store, where people still talk about the joy and service he brought to each customer. He didn’t know a stranger and not long after you met him, you’d be greeted with his warm smile and tactful wit. He was as funny as he was kind to anyone that knew him. Richard loved spending many years at the lake, but most of all you could always find him at a kitchen table playing cards alongside his wife. 

Survivors include his wife, Mary Jane Dewees of Lebanon; children, John (Brenda) Dewees of Lebanon and Lesa (Owen) Hill of Lebanon; sister, Linda Kindig; and grandchildren, Amber (Aaron) Windhorst, Jessica (Chad) Justice, Andrew Dewees, and Brayton Dewees (Ellie Rider).

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by four brothers and five sisters. 

We are rejoicing that he is finally resting at the feet of his Maker and we long for the day that we get to join him there.

Final care of Richard has been entrusted to the Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary, 2400 N. Lebanon Street, Lebanon.