Dr. Richard Nile Duckworth

   On Tuesday, April 27th, 2021, Richard Nile Duckworth, loving husband and father of

three children passed away at the age of 86. Richard was born on January 12th,1935 in

Sutherland, Nebraska to Nile and Eula (Whisler) Duckworth. He was proceeded in death by his

parents and sister, Esther Elaine Sandberg.

   Richard graduated high school in North Platte Nebraska in 1952 and while attending

University of Nebraska and Phillips University, he acquired two bachelor’s degrees. Bachelor

of Arts in 1957 and Bachelor of Divinity in 1960. His education was completed after earning his

Doctor of Ministry in 1979 from Phillips University. He was a member of ROTC for two years

while attending Nebraska University. He was also the president of the Camelot Club in 1955

while attending Phillips University.

On August 11th, 1956 he married Saundra Sue McMillan in Stafford, Kansas. Together,

they raised three sons (David, Steven, and Gary (Carol) Duckworth). Richard was also a loving

grandfather to four grandchildren Braden (Kristen) Duckworth, Caitlyn (Dalton) Mink, Dallas

Codopony and Boston Codopony. And a loving great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren Ryker

Duckworth, Indianna Duckworth, Connor Mink, Tymber Codopony and Carleigh Codopony.

Serving the people of his local communities was his passion and life’s work. Richard

served the cities of Putnam City, Keifer, Pawhuska, Enid, and Burlington, Oklahoma as well as

Osborne, Kansas through Youth Minister, Student Minister and finally pastor rolls. He retired in

1998 after serving in 6 Disciples of Christ Christian churches as a pastor for a total of 40 years.

Following retirement, Richard continued to stay connected and active in his communities as

Founding President of Enid Habitat for Humanity, Member of Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs, AA

guest of Osborne, KS and Pawhuska, OK. He enjoyed singing in the choir, teaching Bible

School classes as well as taking on a role as Camp Counselor.

Richard was a light in the lives of all who knew him. His laugh was as unique as his

heart and he had a passion to constantly learn from and connect with everyone he met. In his

free time he enjoyed reading, fishing, camping, traveling to 31 countries and visiting family and

friends. Richard never met a stranger, welcomed all with open arms, and had the most positive

nature about him.

All date and time information regarding burial, memorials, and funeral will be announced

at a later date  by the Amy Stittsworth Funeral Service.  Memorial service will be held at University Place Christian Church in Enid,

Oklahoma. Rev. George Young and Rev. Harold Hate will officiate at the service. The burial

will take place at the Stafford, Kansas cemetery.

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