Richard Paul Hefner

Born in 1946, he was the oldest of seven children. He grew up in Pleasant Grove and joined the Navy after high school. Volunteering for three tours in Vietnam, he had the opportunity to serve on the Wallace L. Lind (destroyer) and USS Kitty Hawk (carrier). He was awarded three active duty medals for his service, including a bronze star for shutting off fuel tanks under heavy fire during the Tet Offensive. After his last tour, he returned home to work for Dallas Power and Light (TXU). Several years later, coaching the St. Pius women's softball team, he met his true love, Pat Krieger; they were married in 1981, and soon after, he adopted his daughter Erica Hefner.

After retiring from TXU, Richard had a bonus career keeping everyone safe at Total Fire and Safety. Determined to show kindness and always help others, he cared for his family and church community. Richard especially enjoyed working with students and training altar servers after being designated Master of Ceremonies at St. Philip Church. He was an active Grand Knight in his local Knights of Columbus Chapter.

Leaving behind his daughter, Erica Hefner, and grandson, Zane Hefner of East Dallas, countless nieces, nephews, siblings, special family friends, and neighbors. He always made everyone feel great with laughter, jokes, and, most notably, kindness.

Schedule of services: Friday, May 19 at 10 am, a rosary will be held, followed by a mass at St. Philip Catholic Church located at 8131 Military Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75227. After mass, all are invited to share lunch at Circle Grill at 3701 N. Buckner Blvd, Dallas, TX 75228.

A firm believer in catholic education, Richard wanted to allow all altar servers to attend Catholic School, regardless of financial circumstances. Donations may be made to the Richard Hefner Trust, sent to 3117 Sharpview Ln., Dallas, TX 75228.