Richard Alan Popplewell

Richard A. Popplewell of Tulsa, Oklahoma, completed his earthly journey and began a new, everlasting life October 09, 2025, at the age of 71. Richard arrived in the world November 21, 1953, in McKinney, Texas, as the second child, first son born unto Mary Virginia (Woolbright) and Bart H. "Pop" Popplewell. He shared life with an older sister, Mickey, younger brother James, known as "Pete" and half brother Larry, Pop's son born of a prior union. When Richard was five years of age his family moved from Texas to Tulsa, Oklahoma where Pop Popplewell and Jay L. Gentry co-founded the company Aircraft Accessories of Oklahoma, Inc. in 1959. Richard grew up in Tulsa where he and his brother Pete attended church and school, played baseball, delivered newspapers, explored the city and participated in general mischief and mayhem which often caused their parents dismay. He graduated Hale High School with the Class of 1972 and furthered his education at Oklahoma State University. Richard began working at Aircraft Accessories during summer breaks from school when he was 16 years of age. He learned the business operations and amassed a vast knowledge of aircraft components as well as the many types of aircraft which used them. This knowledge never ceased to amaze his employees to whom he would explain, "didn't have computers in my day." Richard became President of Aircraft Accessories in 1981. He, along with his brother Pete, continued to build and expand the company by attending numerous aircraft trade shows throughout the U.S., garnering support and goodwill with current and potential customers while creating a strong reputation of excellence in aircraft repair. He held great respect and appreciation for his employees, created a "family like" environment in the workplace and helped many through various hardships in life. Richard and wife, Delilah (Conner), married in 1991 and were soon blessed with their son and only child, Cole Alan. Richard loved his family unconditionally and together they experienced many exciting, fun-filled vacations, trips to visit his Texas family, concerts, museums, pow-wows and sporting events. They often hosted swim parties, cookouts and family get-togethers sharing love, laughter and camaraderie with all. Richard worked hard and played hard. He unabashedly lived life on his own terms with a fervor and exuberance unmatched by few. He was an avid golfer competing in and winning many tournaments around the Tulsa area and various other states. He was an ardent consumer of Budweiser beer, enthusiastic exploder of fireworks, joyous lover of LOUD rock and roll music (Led Zepplin especially) and a passionate fan of his "Cowboys" both Dallas and Oklahoma State. He had ornery, twinkling eyes, a mischievous grin, a loud, boisterous laugh and dare to be wild attitude. Those who knew him have at least one, if not many, "Richard" stories and those whom didn't soon would. He was deeply loved and will be remembered as the epitome of a "wild" man. So, mourn not for this adventurous soul with an untamed spirit, honor him with your "Richard" stories and find comfort in knowing he "lived one hell of a life!" Richard retired from Aircraft Accessories in 2022, turning the company reins over to his son, Cole. He was preceded in passing by his parents, half brother Larry and his best friend in life, brother James "Pete" Popplewell. Those left to cherish him, share "Richard" stories and remember his warmth, love and generosity include his wife Delilah, son Cole, sister Mickey, numerous employees over the years and a host of friends and relatives. He is also survived by a daughter born of an early marriage and her children. Visitation: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday, October 20, 2025 at Moore's Eastlawn Chapel. Funeral Services: 10:00 AM Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Moore's Eastlawn Chapel. Graveside Services: 2:00 PM Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Allen Cemetery in Allen, TX. Services Entrusted To Moore's Eastlawn Chapel, 1908 S Memorial Dr, Tulsa, OK 74112, 918-622-1155.

Richard Alan Popplewell

November 21, 1953 - October 9, 2025