RICHARD LEE SPRINGER

Our beloved Richard Lee Springer was born on July 24, 1948, in Eldorado, Arkansas to Avery and Hubert
Springer. He was the youngest of 10 children. As a child, Richard lived in the small town called, Beulah Grove,
and attended, Beulah Grove Baptist Church. Richard also attended grade school in Beulah Grove. At eight years
old, Richard moved to San Diego, California with his mother Avery and sister, Mary Alice. Richard and his
family settled with his Aunt Adele, her husband Carl, and his older sister, Elaine. The family became members
of Trinity Baptist Church.
 
As a teenager, Richard formed a gospel singing group with his nephew, Earnest “Sonny” Dawn and close friend,
Rafael “Bub” Haynes. At that time, Richard and Sonny recruited other local talent in the area, to sing with
them. Eventually, the popular gospel groups known as The Mighty Stars of Harmony started singing at different
local churches, schools and were the opening act for major gospel recording artist such as The Dixie
Hummingbirds, Shirley Caesar, and The Jackson Southernaires. They were known as one of San Diego’s
premiere gospel group. Unfortunately, when Bub passed away, the group eventually split. Richard continued to
sing as a solo artist.
 
Richard graduated from San Diego High School in 1965. In 1968, he enlisted into the United States Army, in
which he served honorable, until 1971. After completing active-duty service for the Army, he joined the Pilgrim
Progressive Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Marvin C. Hines. Richard enrolled at San Diego City
College and completed two years. When he departed from the army he soon began to work for Culligan Water
making deliveries all over San Diego for many years. Then Richard gained success in his career, working as a
Federal Civilian Employee for the United States Navy. He received many awards, honors, and recognition until
his retirement in 2013.
 
Richard was previously married to Mayola Springer. Although their marriage did not last, Richard’s quest for
love would eventually lead him to meet future wife, Margaret “Margie.” Richard and Margie began singing
together at their church. The pair got married and began creating a life together. Margie passed away in
February of 2000. With the strength of the Lord and support system, Richard was able to push forward.
 
Once Margie passed Richard continued his journey serving at the Pilgrim Progressive Baptist Church, under
the leadership of the late Pastor Joseph Foxworth, Sr., and he continued his faithful service under the leadership
of Pastor Donnell Townsend. His servant heart was a part of many ministries. He was the driver for the
Communion Ministry in which the Deacons prayed and administered communion to the sick and shut-in. In
addition Richard became the president of the Praise Choir, member of the male chorus, the Brotherhood, Co-
Chairman of the Deacon Board, and a member of the Trustee Board Financial Ministry.
 
Richard was known to be mild mannered, loving, and kind to others. He enjoyed spending time with his friends
and family, such as, attending a birthday dinner, graduation, and/or holiday gathering. It should be known that
Richard made the best hot water cornbread, which was often requested by many.
 
On August 11, 2024, Richard was called home to be with the Lord. He is survived by his sisters, Gladys
Hawkins and Elaine Jefferson, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews,
cousins, and a host of other relatives, friends and church family. Richard is preceded in death by his wife,
Margie Springer, parents, Avery and Hubert Springer, siblings, James Springer, Garfield Springer, Betty Jean Springer (Tolliver), Josie “Honey” Springer (Knowling), Hubert “Jr.” Springer, Tommy Springer, and Mary Alice Springer (Fowler). He will be missed dearly and, in our hearts, forever.

Family and Friends may join the celebration virtually by using the Pilgrim Progressive link; http://www.facebook.com/loveppbc

When you hear of my homegoing... Don't worry 'bout me. I'm packed right now and on my way home. One thing I know... Sure been born again. I've made my preparations so when you called me,I was ready and it was my time to go...I'm just another soldier, going home to be with the Lord!

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