Richard Eugene “Richie” Clarkson, age 74, passed away Thursday, February 19, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. Richie was born August 4, 1951, in Ft. Scott, Kansas, the son of Richard Junior “Blackie” Clarkson and Betty Mae “Peggy” Brown Clarkson. He was their only child. Richie graduated from Northeast High School in Arma, Kansas with the Class of 1969. After high school, Richie played basketball for Labette County Community College. Richie worked many years for Midwestern and for B & D trucking before becoming self-employed as a contract mail carrier for thirty-eight years for the United States Postal Service. In addition to hauling mail, he also worked part-time with his dad where he operated heavy equipment and did dirt work. In June of 1990, Richie married the love of his life, Ann; together, they shared a home filled with love, laughter, family, and memories. Richie enjoyed sports; he played recreational basketball, fast pitch for the Shepherd Team Auto Plaza team and also played many years of slow pitch softball. Later, he loved cheering on his grandkids at their various sporting events. Richie enjoyed attending gun shows, going to the races and mowing his yard. He also had a deep love for music and never passed up a sweet treat or breakfast food. He was an animal lover and was especially fond of his beloved pets. Richie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He had many interests, but nothing meant more to him than time spent with his family. His presence, humor and love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Survivors include his wife, Ann, of the home; three daughters, Tricia Daniels (Darrell) of Overland Park, Kansas, Bryna Boldra (Jeremy) of El Dorado, Kansas and Tiffani Agee (Jason) of Nevada, Missouri; four grandchildren, Landon and Keenan Boldra, Anlee Daniels and Lynlee Agee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Blackie and Peggy Clarkson and his in-laws, Ellsworth and Betty Heckadon.

Following cremation, a celebration of life service will be held at 5:00 P.M. Friday, February 27th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Visitation will follow the service until 7:00 P.M. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.