Obituary
The legendary Richard “Dick” Sarles passed away on August 17, 2021, at the age of 66, in Jacksonville, Florida. Born to Charlotte and Maurice Sarles, Jr. on June 21, 1955, in Coral Gables, FL. Preceded in death by his parents and son, Matthew John. Survived by his children, Jason Sarles, Jennifer Wilds, Jessica Philo, son-in-law, Riley Philo, and former wife Debbie Peak; sister Jean Monroe and brother Michael Sarles. Richard is survived by his grandchildren Trey Wilds, Haley Sarles, Nirvana Sarles, Logan Bowers, and great-grandson Jayvyn Lattimore. Rich leaves many other family members, dog Beau and cat Snowball, as well as his work family.
Richard faced every challenge in life with a smile on his face. He was a loving father, always there for his children, helping them grow and reminding them always how proud he was. A mentor to many, including his family, he will be remembered for always giving – giving time, energy, an ear, advice, money, and anything he could do for his fellow family and friends. He lived by the words of Zig Ziglar and one he spoke all the time was, “You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”
A favorite saying, Richard proclaimed he was “a legend in his own mind.” While we celebrate his life, each of us knows he was a legend in our minds too. Richard never met a stranger, everyone he met became a friend. He welcomed all, treated all with dignity and respect, and had a fantastic and goofball sense of humor. It was a true joy to know Richard, to have him in your life in any capacity. He made you feel important with just one handshake, one smile, or one amazing hug.
Richard was very accepting and respectful of all religions and people, and his Christian faith was a huge part of his life. He took so much joy in being in fellowship with those around him who shared his faith at the Church of Eleven 22 and First Christian Church of the Beaches. He always ensured those in need were on his prayer list, and he shared his faith in God and his love of Jesus with all.
Generous with his time, Richard volunteered with Duval County Schools, working with the PTA and as a tutor. His philanthropy extended into many realms - his love of animals, donating food for homeless people, and several non-profits during his life, including United Way. He wanted to help his community as a proud Jacksonville resident.
In his career he and Debbie owned and operated Penny Patch, a staple in the Arlington community from 1980 – 1988, along with his bakery from 1984 - 1988. Richard also worked as a store manager for Winn-Dixie and was proud to be one of the youngest ever store managers! He also managed and helped open many Dollar Tree stores, rising quickly through the ranks in every company and role through his determined work ethic and networking skills. His work family extends to Publix, Sunshine, and Keebler, and many other retail companies; he had a passion for retail and a work ethic like no other.
In his final days, Richard suffered from COVID-19. He is now resting with family, friends, and pets lost before, and they are lucky to have him. We will certainly miss Richard’s smile, blue eyes, his belief in himself, his silly phone calls and nicknames, the way he uplifted us, his advice, and most of all, for how he always ensured someone felt good and knew he was proud of you, no matter who you were. It is now our time to celebrate his journey.
A Celebration of Life is being held on Saturday, September 25 at 1 pm at First Christian Church of the Beaches located at 2125 Ocean Front Neptune Beach, FL 32266.
Messages of condolence or photos to share in the celebration slideshow may be sent to the family at [email protected].
Richard's amazing life will be recognized in a beach-side celebration of life with a reception to follow. Friends are encouraged to share stories of Rich’s life during the reception.