Richard Gale Fuller

Richard Gale "Dick" Fuller, 95, of Topeka, passed away Sunday, August 7, 2022.

He was born February 25, 1927, along with twin brother, Robert in Wilson County, Kansas, the son of John W. and Cora A. (Lewis) Fuller.

Richard graduated from Fredonia High School and then spent a brief time serving in the United States Navy. Richard attended Independence Junior College and Pittsburg State University, where he met his wife, Shirley Ann Simmons.

Richard married Shirley Simmons on July 4, 1948 at the First Baptist Church in Parsons, Kansas. Shirley Fuller taught school in Emporia, Kansas while Richard completed studies and graduated from Emporia State University in 1949.

Richard and Shirley taught school in Dodge City, Kansas for several years. They moved to Topeka, Kansas where Richard worked in an automotive parts and supply store. After several years of employment Richard and a partner established, Motor Parts, Inc., an auto supply store.

Richard was a member of Highland Park United Methodist Church and was active in The Gideons International.

Survivors include two daughters, Connie Lynn (Danny) Turner and Gayle Ann Wadsworth; five grandchildren, Reuben Turner, Matthew Turner, Jordan Turner, Sara Wadsworth (Tyler) King, Cody Wadsworth and five great grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shirley Fuller on November 12, 2017; brother, Vernon; sister, Marjory and son-in-law, Kent Wadsworth.

Richard was trained to be a teacher and taught Sunday School Classes. He discovered a spark in writing poetry and short essays and devotionals. He became a certified lay speaker and did so in a number of churches. Although Richard did not feel that he excelled in any of these things he certainly gave it his best.

Richard believed, "Go boldly where God leads you. If we do nothing, coming generations will not hear our good news. If we have good news to share, we are obligated to pass it on. Each of us need to discover ways that we are able to do that: teach, lead, serve, speak, write, sing and live as an example. God has given all of us gifts and talents to be used. A gift is not a gift until it is given freely. Find a way to pass it on. Just remember, it is hard to deliver good news with a scowl on your face".

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Highland Park United Methodist Church, 2914 SE Michigan Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66605. The family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, 4700 SW 17th St., Topeka, Kansas 66604.

Dove Cremations and Funerals Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66605 is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 1092, Topeka, Kansas 66601 or to Highland Park United Methodist Church, 2914 SE Michigan Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66605.

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