Richard Recardo Burnside

Richard Recardo Burnside, 61, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 22, 2024 in Benton, Louisiana. Services will be held Friday, September 27, 2024 at St. Jude Catholic Church in Benton, Louisiana. A visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. A graveside service will take place immediately after the funeral at Rose-Neath Cemetery in Bossier. Services will be led by Monsignor Long.

Richard was born on August 15, 1963, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He is preceded in death by his father, EJ Burnside, Jr, mother, Maria Rivas Burnside, and his sister, Barbara Ann Burnside.

 Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Pam Burnside. Together, they had a big, beautiful family including five children: Brandon Burnside (Amy), Mandi Beverage Waldron (Michael), Chuck Beverage (Jamie), Chad Beverage (Ashley), and Dawn Beverage Tannehill (Prentice).

Richard was the greatest Pape to his 15 grandchildren: Brayden Beverage, Sadie Beverage, Levi Beverage, Shelbi Jo Waldron, Karli Waldron, Mason Burnside, Julia Beverage, Deacon Beverage, Reese Burnside, Ali Waldron, Charlie Tannehill, Millie Burnside, Liam Tannehill, Marshall Waldron, and Jackson Burnside. Richard is also survived by his mother in love, Jo Ann Hartsell Hughes, who held a special place in his heart. He also leaves behind his brother, Arvel “Jimmy” Burnside (Jodie), sister, Rose Burnside and numerous nieces and nephews whom he treasured. He was honored to be Godfather to his niece Shanna’s daughter, Mikayla Day. 

Richard was incredibly gifted and accomplished in many areas of life. He was a master craftsman, excelling in his careers as a general contractor, homebuilder, and home inspector. His expertise and dedication to quality craftsmanship were evident in every project he undertook. Among Richard’s proudest privileges, was the construction of St. Jude Catholic Church, a project that held great significance for him and the community.

Richard and Pam were married 35 years this coming January. Pam was his soulmate and the love of his life. Their bond was a testament to unconditional love. Richard took great pride in loving his wife and filled her days with endless affection, surprise flowers and gifts, wonderful gourmet meals, and countless moments of adventure and joy. 

As a father and grandfather, Richard was larger than life itself. He showered them all with love, wisdom, and laughter. Whether it was a simple moment of conversation or a grand family gathering, he made each of them feel seen, heard, and cherished. He was the greatest father and Pape, always active and full of fun.

He wasn’t just a Pape to his own family but also a beloved 'Pape' to all of their friends and neighborhood kids creating lasting memories for everyone who knew him.

Richard was a great man of faith. He was an active member of St. Jude Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharist Minister. Richard wore his Saint Joseph medallion necklace around his neck every day as a symbol of his faith and commitment. He was also known to put that necklace around his grandchildren’s neck at random moments, sharing his faith with them, even as they were babies.

Richard had a passion for the outdoors and found peace in nature and on the water. One of his favorite pastimes was kayaking. Richard especially enjoyed taking Pam out kayaking at night, to watch the sunset, and picking her water lily blossoms. Richard was an incredible cook. He was referred to as Chef Recardo as he loved to cook meals for his family and friends. He loved traveling with Pam and especially their trip to Italy in October 2022 with dear friends from various church parishes. Richard was also known for meticulously, tending to his home, yard and dogs. He loved and adored his dogs, and they loved him in return with unwavering loyalty to him.

His adventurous spirit and love for life was contagious. His legacy is one of love, adventure, and selflessness, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Honoring Richard as pallbearers will be Brandon Burnside, Chuck Beverage, Chad Beverage, Jimmy Burnside, Michael Waldron, Prentice Tannehill, and Brayden Beverage.

In honor of Pape and his joyful spirit, we will be wearing bright colors instead of black to celebrate his life.