James Richard "Rick" Lempeotis

James Richard Lempeotis, known to his loved ones as Rick, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024, in Abilene, Texas. Rick was born on December 23, 1955, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Merlin James Lempeotis and Odessa Pearl Lempeotis.

Rick attended school in Fort Worth, Texas and graduated from Fort Worth Christian School in 1974. He married Patricia "Tricia" Lempeotis on May 15, 1993, in Arlington, Texas. He retired from Construction in 2004 to dedicate himself to caring for his family.

Rick was an avid gardener and a collector of various sports and historic memorabilia. Known for his smile, sense of humor, compassion, and kindness - he was a great friend to many. He played football and baseball in high school and continued to enjoy these sports as a young adult, embodying the spirit of a true athlete. This athletic spirit was evident in his life right until the end. Anyone who knew him knew he had never met a stranger. He loved stories and history, and he could often be found sharing them with those around him.

After retirement, Rick became a stay-at-home dad, making countless sacrifices and doing everything to ensure his family's happiness. His unwavering dedication and love for his family and friends were evident in all he did.

In recent years, Rick focused immensely on his personal and spiritual growth. He was an active deacon at his church in Florida, where he spent much time volunteering with the children's groups and attending men's groups. His family is and always will be incredibly proud of the man he was.

Rick was welcomed into heaven by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, along with his parents, Merlin and Odessa Lempeotis; uncles, Richard Pridemore, Ralph Pridemore, Rupert Pridemore, and George Sealy Pridemore; aunts, Billie Foster and Weida McKee; cousins, Patricia Hannah, Linda Wilburn, Jerry Foster, and Rocky Pridemore; beloved family and in-laws, lifetime friends, and loyal pets including Dually, Patches, Amo, and Lexi.

He will be missed by his wife, Tricia Lempeotis; daughter, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Lempeotis; cousins, Skip Pridemore, Randy Pridemore, Chuck Foster, Mark McKee, Suzanne Morton, and Pam Poole; many other loving in-laws, family, and friends; and his loyal dogs, Lylia, Mic, and Nacho.

Rick would have wanted us to thank all healthcare workers who supported him over the years. The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the Hendrick Heart Failure Clinic for their incredible care over the past few years. We also deeply appreciate the support from Interim HealthCare, especially Zach, our community liaison, Shala, Rick's hospice nurse, and the entire hospice team who made Rick's final days as comfortable as possible. Additionally, we are grateful to the Windcrest Rehab Facility and their kind workers who helped him immensely these past few months.

In accordance with Rick's wishes, his ashes will be spread at various locations that meant a lot to him. Celebration of Life services will be announced at a later date by the family.

Memorials may be given to Fort Worth Christian School or your local church. To plant a tree in his memory, please visit the green button at the top of this obituary page or the link at the bottom left.