Richard W. Walsh

Richard Wayne "Dick" Walsh passed away on January 13, 2021 in Lubbock, Texas. Dick was born to Jack and Bernice Walsh on September 3, 1942 in Amarillo, Texas. He was raised in Amarillo and graduated from Price College High School in 1960.

He married the love of his life Deanna "Dede" Kriegshauser on January 26, 1963 in Hereford, Texas. The couple made their home in Portales, NM where Dick was attending ENMU, he graduated with a business degree in 1965. Dick began his career at ENMU and in 1967 completed his MBA there. Dick had an extensive and esteemed career in College administration and education. He completed his doctoral degree at Texas Tech University in 1983. Dick served at ENMU for 25 years, serving in various positions within student affairs and contributed to the culture of excellence that the university enjoys today.

After ENMU he also served for several years as a regional director of Mental Health and Human Resources in New Mexico. During his time at South Plains College he was selected twice for the Presidential Award for Professional Employee and served there as Provost for 14 years in Lubbock, Texas. Marking his years as Chief Executive Officer and the development of the Byron Martin Advanced Technology Center are two of his finest accomplishments.

Dick served as an Alumni Board Member at ENMU from 1994-2006 and in 2008 he received the Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Walsh is of an elite group of educators who received their education at Eastern and left a lasting impact on higher education. The couple have made their home in Lubbock since 1993.

But one of his greatest accomplishments was his family. Dick and Dede were blessed with three sons, Shawn, Kerry and Mark. Dick was an active and involved father and left quite a legacy for his 3 sons. Dick had numerous friends and family that were so important to him that he made every effort to stay in touch with, especially his fraternity brothers from Delta Sigma Pi.

Dick loved family trips, traveling with friends and he loved sports. He spent many years as a referee for games across the area. He loved football and golf and was on the ENMU football team in the '60's.

Dick was a faithful servant of God and shared his faith with his family and friends. He was a devoted member of St. John Neumann Catholic church in Lubbock, Texas. He also was involved with the ACTS community of Lubbock. Dick was involved in many civic organizations within his communities.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and a baby sister Janet Kay.

Those left to celebrate his life include his brothers John (Sara) Walsh of Amarillo, TX and David (Peggy) Walsh of Houston, TX. His beautiful wife Dede of Lubbock and his 3 sons and families, Shawn Walsh and partner Jeff Jarnagin of Amarillo, Kerry and Cristy Walsh of Portales, NM and Mark and Erin Walsh of Levelland, TX. And grandchildren Eric (Sarah) Walsh of Rio Rancho, NM and Elizabeth, Matthew and Michael Walsh of Levelland. Step grandchildren Joni (Brian) Visser of Fresno, CA and Clint (Kennedy) Brakebill of Amarillo. He was also blessed with great grandchildren Landon and Addison Walsh and step great-grandchildren Colton, Audrey and Evelyn Visser. Dick is survived by many extended family members that meant so much to him.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Lubbock, Tx or to the Alzheimer's Association.