Richard Dean Severson

Richard Dean SeversonMay 19, 1943 – July 16, 2025

Richard Dean Severson of Aiken, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 82.

He is survived by his three children, Christine Miller, Tamara Lassack, and Rick Severson, and his three brothers, Jim Severson, Gary Severson, and Bill Severson. Bill resides in Oregon, while the rest of the family lives in Washington State.

Richard was a native of Auburn, WA and a son of the late Mr. Dallas V. Severson and Mrs. Alice A. Maurice Severson and had made Aiken, SC his home for the past 15 years. His previous homes included Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Alaska, California, Colombia, South America, Florida, and Pennsylvania before moving to South Carolina. Richard’s biggest adventure was in Colombia, South America. He traveled down the Amazon River into the jungles of Brazil and to Ecuador.

A devout Catholic, Richard was a faithful parishioner of St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Aiken, where he centered his life on Christ. His love for God was especially evident in his deep devotion to Jesus in the Most Holy Eucharist. He spent countless hours in Perpetual Adoration, drawing strength, peace, and purpose from the Real Presence of Christ. Richard was also a passionate pro-life advocate and involved with LifeRunners, championing the dignity of human life from conception to natural death.

Richard loved the outdoors and often went camping with his children. Motorcycle riding was a joy of his as well as hunting. He was a professional Thoroughbred horse trainer, respected for his skill and dedication to the sport. He reflected fondly on his days training in the Seattle, Washington area, where his love for the sport was first nurtured. His lifelong love for animals was also evident in the care he gave to his own companions, including his beloved Rottweiler, Sammi, and several rescued pets, his dog Kizzy, and cats Misty and Cleo.

A Requiem Mass will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Park Avenue in Aiken, followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery. Father Michael Ghattas will be the celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, the community is encouraged to offer prayers for the repose of his soul and to continue supporting Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration, pro-life causes, and the humane care of animals in his memory.

COLE FUNERAL HOME 1544 UNIVERSITY PARKWAY (118 BY PASS) AIKEN, SC, 29801