Richard C. Cleland 1952-2023

Rich was a husband to Beverly Wilson Phillips Cleland for 35 years. He was a loving father to his son, Shane (Brittany) Cleland, and to his stepsons, Shane (Courtney) Phillips and Bret Phillips. Rich was also a proud grandfather to Mayson and McKenna Cleland, and step-granddaughters, Olivia and Leah Phillips. He also leaves behind sisters, Martha (Lee) Bricker of Columbus, Indiana, and Susan (Tony) Sandy of Lilburn, Georgia; and a brother, James (Gailya) Cleland of White Rock, New Mexico.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Raymond Cleland.

Rich was a certified farrier, dedicating his time and skills to care for animals. He also served as a police officer in Springfield Township. Rich later moved to Florida, where he continued to serve as a Wauchula City police officer and then as a deputy agricultural sheriff for Hardee County. Most recently, he worked at the Pilot Travel Center in North Lima.

Outside his professional life, Rich was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a member of New Middletown Farmers and Sportsmen Club.

Rich attended North Lima Mennonite Church, 90 Mennonite Drive, North Lima, where a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, with a time of visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Rest in peace, Rich; your memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

Please visit www.oakmeadowcremation.com to send condolences to the family.

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