Richard was born on March 25, 1964, to Joe and Leonora Shields in Dalton, Georgia. He passed away on March 14, 2025, in Gainesville, Texas. A memorial service in his honor will be held on Friday, March 21 at 4 at the First Baptist Church in Gainesville, Texas.

Richard had a brilliant mind and excelled in academics including managerial studies. After graduating in 1982, he entered the US Army. He served 10 years as a Corporal. He specialized in intelligence, using his ability to acquire and apply knowledge both quickly and clearly.

Most important to Richard was his faith in Jesus Christ and his love for his family. He is survived by his parents, Joe and Terry, and sister Allison Assaf. He is preceded in death by his mother Leonora and brother Lee Shields. He leaves behind his children, Richard Alexander Shields, Tiffany Elizabeth Shields-Fout, Richard Thomas Shields and Hunter Lee Shields, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Richard had an animated personality with laughing eyes and a ready smile for anyone he met. He had a kind and gentle heart which will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His sweet spirit and compassionate nature touched us all. A light has dimmed in our lives but we know Heaven just got a little brighter.