Richard Edward Linhardt

Richard Edward Linhardt, age 89, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Richard was born on February 21, 1936, in Mount Sterling, Missouri to August Linhardt and Clara Linhardt (née Busch). He was a beloved son, brother, father, husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather. In 1958, he married his loving wife Patricia (née Jones) whom he met while serving in the United States Coast Guard in New Orleans, Louisiana. They shared 67 years of devoted companionship and raised three sons together.

Richard worked as a Professor of Agricultural Education and Engineering for 27 years. He taught at Clemson University, Washington State University, and the University of Missouri. He received numerous accolades including the R.M. Wade Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1978 and was a lifelong member of the FFA. In 1998, he retired from the University of Missouri.

Richard was an avid farmer and enjoyed driving frequently to Florida. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, mechanics, welding, woodworking, and construction. He was a man who made connections wherever he went whether it was chatting with the mayor in Carrabelle, Florida or with members of the Rusty Zipper Club in Columbia, Missouri. Above all, Richard loved his family and ensured that they were always taken care of.

Richard is survived by his wife Patricia, sons Richard Dale, Michael (Deborah), and Jeffrey (Kimberly), grandchildren Claire (Bruce), Justin (Anna), Austin, and Alexander (Anya), and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents August and Clara, brothers Paul and Willard, and sister Mary Anne.

Visitation will be held at Nashville Baptist Church in Ashland, Missouri on Saturday, November 15 at 10:00 am. Funeral and burial will directly follow beginning at 11:00 am.