Donald Richie

Donald Everett Richie, 83, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on October 11, 2026.

Donald was born on September 2, 1943, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, to the late John Henry and Flora L. (Baker) Richie. From an early age, he demonstrated a commitment to service, leadership, and improving the lives of those around him.

Donald proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1965 to 1968, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5). During his military service, he participated in the Berlin Crisis, an experience that helped shape his lifelong dedication to civic engagement and community leadership.

Following his military service, Donald pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs in 1971. His education strengthened his passion for advocacy, economic opportunity, and public service.

In 1972, Donald entered public life as a candidate for Colorado State Representative for District 17. Running under the campaign slogan, "A Voice for All the People," he lost the election by only seven votes, demonstrating both his determination and the support he had earned within the community.

Throughout the following decades, Donald devoted himself to causes that strengthened families, empowered youth, and advanced opportunities for underserved communities. His work spanned community development, economic empowerment, education, and civil rights advocacy.

As a member of the Iota Omicron Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Donald worked alongside his fraternity brothers to support senior citizens during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons, helping ensure families had food and resources for holiday meals.

Donald was deeply involved with numerous organizations and initiatives, including the NAACP, Shooks Run Redevelopment, Inc., the Urban League, the Black Leadership Forum, the Black Chamber of Commerce, the California State Legislature, the Broadcasters Association Advisory Committee, and various Black Caucus initiatives. Through these affiliations, he championed education, economic independence, civic participation, and social progress.

Among his most meaningful contributions was his work with Black Adults for Our Youth, where he mentored, encouraged, and created opportunities for African American youth. Believing strongly in the power of positive role models, Donald dedicated countless hours to helping young people improve academically, strengthen family relationships, and develop leadership skills. Through annual fundraising efforts, he awarded scholarships to deserving middle and high school students for outstanding academic achievement and community involvement.

Donald also had a special way of caring for families in practical and meaningful ways. Friends often recalled that after Sunday church services, he would prepare breakfast for mothers and their children, understanding that a house filled with children brought both joy and responsibility. His generosity extended beyond a meal. Through his work with Black Adults for Our Youth, Donald and other members frequently reached out to young mothers with newborns who needed support. Drawing upon relationships developed during his years in the pharmaceutical industry, Donald would provide infant formula at no cost whenever possible. Families knew they could depend on him, and he ensured that formula remained available for as long as a baby needed it. These acts of kindness reflected his belief that supporting children meant supporting their families as well. Whether through mentorship, encouragement, or meeting basic needs, Donald quietly and consistently invested in the well-being of others.

His commitment to youth extended into tutoring and mentoring programs throughout Colorado Springs, where he helped students recognize their value, reach their potential, and pursue greater opportunities in life.

This addition helps show who Donald was personally, not just what he accomplished professionally, by highlighting his generosity, compassion, and commitment to help families thrive.

Donald also made contributions in the areas of mental health, economic development, and entrepreneurship. As an entrepreneur, he was associated with Richie's Office Supplies, reflecting his belief in business ownership and economic self-sufficiency within the community. Professionally, he also served as a Regional Manager for Bristol-Myers Squibb, utilizing his skills in public affairs, legislative relations, and community engagement.

His dedication and executive leadership earned him numerous awards and recognitions, including honors for exceptional service in Minority Business Opportunity programs and recognition from the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis for his vision, guidance, and commitment to community advancement.

While Donald's accomplishments were many, those who knew him best will remember his unwavering belief that communities grow stronger when people work together, invest in young people, create economic opportunities, and uplift one another. His influence can be seen in the countless lives he touched, the students he mentored, the organizations he supported, and the communities he helped strengthen.

Donald leaves to cherish his memory of his adoptive son, Tony (Brenda) White of Colorado Springs, Colorado; grandsons, Jelany of Las Vegas, NV and Kahri White of Los Angles, California; and great-grandchildren, Scotlyn, Nori, and Alaia White.

He is also survived by his brothers, Jerry Richie of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; Howard Richie and Dale Richie of Beloit, Wisconsin; Perry (June) Richie of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; and Michael Richie of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.

Donald was blessed with many cherished friendships, including Ted Martin, June Waller, Cleasther Marchman, Dr. Frank Giardino, Greg Walton, Doris McCullough, Alice (Davis) Huffman, and Alonda Martin and family, as well as dear friends throughout Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Sacramento, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers John Richie Jr., Glen Richie and sister-in-law Beatrice (Bea) Richie, Larry Richie, and Fredrick Keith Richie; and sister Claudette (Kenney) Richie.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to June Waller, Tony White, and Dr. Frank Giardino for helping preserve and share the many treasured memories of Donald's life.

Donald Everett Richie will be remembered as:

• A devoted veteran

• A community advocate

• A mentor to youth

• A champion for economic empowerment

• A public servant

• A friend to many

A life of purpose. A voice for the community. A legacy of service.

May his memory continue to inspire future generations, and may he rest in eternal peace.

There will be a visitation Saturday, October 31,2026, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home 701 Vine St. Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.  A celebration of life will begin at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Carl Williams officiating.  

Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Donald Richie