James "Dick" Richard Kingsley

James Richard Kingsley, known to all as Dick, was born August 26, 1938, and passed away peacefully on July 24, 2023, surrounded by family. He grew up in Quincy, MA, the son of Francis F. Kingsley, Sr., and Dorothy Newson. Dick met Ruth Catton while working at American Airlines, and they married in 1970. Shortly after they moved to St. Louis, MO, and expanded their family with two children, Jeffrey "Jeff" and Jennifer. He enjoyed going to their sporting activities and spending summer weekends at the pool. A move to Arizona found Dick & Ruth enjoying the sun and their pool. However, his greatest enjoyment came from watching his grandchildren grow up. No matter where he went, Dick smiled and started up a conversation with those who crossed his path. He began work alongside his father at Bethlehem Steele, learning from his father that hard work is how you succeed, and passed this lesson on to Jeff and Jennifer. He eventually found his passion as a salesman. He loved talking with people, making sure he could help them before trying to make a sale. He took tremendous pride in achieving a 100% sales close rate. After he retired, he enjoyed sharing what he learned at work with Jeff and Jennifer, because so many of the lessons were applicable beyond sales. He is preceded in death by his parents, beloved brother Francis F. Kingsley, Jr., and his son Donnie Kingsley. He is survived by his wife Ruth; children Jeff and Jennifer, and grandchildren Austin, Hunter, Cole, Paul, Dominic, Mackenzie, Tyler, and Amber. In addition, he is survived by daughter Tiffany Harper, son Steven Kingsley, and their children and grandchildren. Services will be held at Woody Funeral Home Huguenot Chapel on Friday, August 4, 2023 at 7:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, we will be accepting monetary donations at the service to provide an in-person donation to Chesterfield Fire Station 19 for their service to our family. Alternatively, donations in Dick's name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.