Richard Douglas Messenger

Richard Douglas Messenger, son of Kenneth A. and Constance C. nee Kroeck Messenger was born January 26, 1966 at Lutheran Hospital in St. Louis, MO. He was baptized during infancy at St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church where he later was confirmed as an adolescent. From infancy Richard was cared for at home by his parents, especially his mother. He remained in her care until she could no longer provide the support and care that he required. His mother then had to be placed in Bethesda Southgate until her passing in 2012. At the time that she was placed in Bethesda Southgate, Richard was taken into the home of his sister Kim and her husband Sonny Strong. They then lovingly cared for Richard until December 7, 2023, when he was admitted to Mercy South Medical Center for testing and neurological evaluation. He afterwards experienced 4 weeks in rehabilitation there before being transferred to Hillcrest Care Center, DeSoto, MO. Besides being survived by Kim and Sonny, he is survived by his brother Gary (Sharon) Messenger as well as many other nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces. Richard worked 29 years at Industrial Aid Inc., a sheltered workshop, where he did piecework. A few times a year Industrial Aid would have parties with a DJ, where he would dance from the time it started until the time it ended. In addition to dancing, Richard also loved to play with Hot Wheels cars, play golf, watch all sports, swim, give hugs and kisses. He would always ask if you were all right. Never worried about himself. Richard was a lovable guy who was loved by many. After Richard's admission to Hillcrest in early January 2024, he repeatedly experienced respiratory and other health issues which hospitalized him from time to time. While Richard was cared for at Hillcrest he made new friends. He absolutely loved all the Hillcrest staff. Finally, on January 19, 2025 he was placed on Gentiva Hospice Care at Hillcrest where he then remained until his passing at 1:28 a.m. Sunday morning, February 2, 2025. He attained the age of 59 years and 7 days. Richard was taken to God's home on the day that his mother was buried in 2012. He was definitely God's special child. Donations can be made online to the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis at dsagsl.org.

Richard Douglas Messenger

January 26, 1966 - February 2, 2025