Richard Curths

Richard Edwin Curths, 82, of Crossville, Tennessee, passed away on October 30, 2023. He was born on December 20, 1940, in Grandville, Michigan. Richard was a loving husband, devoted father, and doting grandfather. Richard had a remarkable life filled with adventure and hard work. He served in the Air Force and was honorably discharged after sustaining an injury in an accident. Despite this setback, Richard never let it hinder his determination to live life to the fullest. He went on to work as an air traffic controller, a job that allowed him to indulge his love for planes. Richard spent countless hours building and tinkering with model remote-controlled aircraft, a passion that brought him immense joy. In his later years, Richard transitioned to a career as a realtor, helping couples and families achieve their dreams of homeownership. Even in retirement, Richard felt a deep desire to be around others, especially young minds. He became a bus driver and spent hours on his bus, engaging in heartfelt conversations with the children and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. He spent many years coaching little league baseball, which including coaching his son’s team. Richard's love story with his wife, Lillie Marie (Brown), was one for the ages. They married in Ocala, Florida, after falling in love and spent many years enjoying their retirement in the warm sunshine. The couple honeymooned in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, a special place for the two, where they eventually settled in Fairfield Gladys, Tennessee. Richard cherished his role as a grandfather and was lovingly known as "Papa" to his five grandchildren, Calvin, Carisa, Gavin, Hannah, and Mirabella, and his additional bonus grandchild, Janus Flora. Richard's grandchildren, as well as many other children in the communities he lived and worked in, adored him and saw him as a true grandfather figure. His love and devotion to his family were unwavering, and he always made everyone feel cherished and valued. Richard loved vacationing with his family and long drives through the mountains with his wife Lillie Marie enjoying each other’s company, marveling at nature, and sharing heartfelt moments. Richards most cherished and loved memories were with his wife during Christmas. His unwavering love for Christmas was shared with his wife Marie. His enthusiasm for Christmas was unparalleled, and their home became a winter wonderland, both inside and out, like a Halmark movie in real life. Richard’s meticulous placement of Christmas decorations, including delicate nicknacks, vintage statues, and Santa Claus animatronics. His love for Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas radiated through every corner of their home. Richard Edwin Curths is survived by his beloved wife, Lillie Marie Curths (Brown), his brother Edward Curths, his son Phillip (and Ashley) Curths, his stepson Dwayne (and Priscilla) Osmun, and his grandchildren: Calvin, Carisa, Gavin, Hannah, Mirabella, and Janus. Richard Edwin Curths will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, and unwavering love for his family, and his faith in Christ. His impact on the lives of those he touched will be felt for generations to come.