Richard C. “Dick” Arlington, Jr., 72, was called home to our Lord, passing away peacefully on Friday, May 28, 2010. He was born June 1, 1937 in Houston, Texas to Ada and Richard Arlington.
Dick graduated from Houston’s Reagan High School. In his early years he learned the value of hard work – holding two jobs while completing school at Regan. After serving in the Civil Air Patrol and the U.S. Air Force, Dick was a smart, sharp and witty pilot. Barbara, an independent young woman who had just finished her Bachelors at Baylor University, wasn’t in any hurry to marry just any ordinary man. Then she met Dick. After some bantering they both realized there could not have been a better match made in heaven.
Dick was successful in business and later, he and Barbara were blessed with two children. He was a loving husband and father. Dick showed us all the value our friendships make in our lives and the blessings they provide. He made no distinction between friends and business acquaintances. They were all worthy of his time and energy. Dick loved to network in business, politics and charities. His zest for life was infectious. He traveled with his family to Mexico, the Grand Canyon, California, Skiing in Colorado and countless other destinations. He had seen a lot of the world in earlier years and wanted his family to see it as well.
While somewhat of a cliché, his favorite phrase was “Work hard, play hard.” And he did. He set an example for all those around him. Taking Houston’s up-and-coming youth and connecting them with established business executives was one of his great passions. His talent was bringing differing opinions to the table, addressing the challenges, doing the work – then showing everyone how to have fun doing it.
He was a member of the Texas Lyceum, Houston’s “C” Club, The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo’s Parade Committee, a Board Member of Crime Stoppers of Houston and an active member at First Baptist Church of Houston.
He is survived by his wife Barbara, children Clint and Beth, grandchildren August and Lauren, and great-grandson Oliver. He will be missed by us all. But the gifts he left us will remain for years to come.
