Richard and Katherine Garwood's Obituary
With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Richard “Dick” Garwood and his beloved wife, Kathrine “Kay” Garwood, whose lives were tragically taken together on July 3rd 2026.
Dick and Kay’s story began in Concordia, Kansas, where they were both born and raised. High school sweethearts, they built a marriage rooted in unwavering love, faith, and devotion that spanned a lifetime. Together, they created a home where family always came first, everyone was welcomed with kindness, and love was expressed through everyday acts of generosity and service.
Dick proudly served his country in the United States Navy, carrying with him throughout his life the values of duty, humility, and integrity. Following their careers, Dick and Kay enjoyed 38 years of retirement, which they viewed not as a time to slow down, but as an opportunity to give back to the community they loved.
Since 1976, Dick and Kay were faithful members of New Haven United Methodist Church in Tulsa, where they formed lifelong friendships and lived out their faith through service. Their commitment to helping others was evident in countless volunteer hours with Restore Hope Ministries, the Tulsa Day Center, and Exodus House. Kay also devoted herself to helping young readers at McClure Middle School, where she spent years teaching children to read and encouraging them to believe in themselves.
Neither Dick nor Kay sought recognition for their kindness. They simply believed that serving others was one of life’s greatest privileges. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing words of encouragement, or quietly meeting someone’s needs, they made a lasting difference in the lives of countless people.
Above all else, Dick and Kay treasured their family. They were devoted to one another and deeply loved by their children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Their greatest joy came from spending time with those they loved, celebrating milestones, creating traditions, and making every family gathering feel special.
While the circumstances of their passing are heartbreaking, their family hopes they will be remembered not for the tragedy that ended their lives, but for the extraordinary love with which they lived them. Their legacy is one of compassion, faith, generosity, and unwavering commitment to serving others. The countless lives they touched stand as a testament to two people who truly made the world better simply by being in it.
Dick and Kay are survived by a family who loved them beyond measure and who will forever cherish their memories, honor their example, and carry their legacy of kindness forward.
A memorial service celebrating the lives of Dick and Kay Garwood will be held Friday, July 10, at 9:00 a.m. at New Haven United Methodist Church, 5603 S. New Haven Ave., Tulsa, Oklahoma.
In lieu of flowers or food, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Dick and Kay Garwood’s honor to Restore Hope Ministries, 2960 Charles Page Blvd., Tulsa, OK 74127.
Though they are deeply missed, their love, faith, and spirit of service will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know them.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?

