Richard Poland
April 4, 1930 — June 12, 2016
Richard Edward Poland went home to be with the Lord on June 12, 2016. He was born on April 4, 1930 to Jessie Richard and Margaret Josephine Mickler Poland in St. Augustine, FL. He was raised in Jacksonville and attended Andrew Jackson High School. He served in the US military during the Korean War with both the Navy and Marines. After the war, Mr. Poland graduated from the University of Florida in 1959 with a degree in Pharmacy. He was the owner and operator of University Pharmacy located in Arlington for 31 years.
He was the youngest of seven children and is preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Ora Herndon, Robert Poland, Roberta Poland, Elizabeth Monteau and Mary Virginia Salvadore. He is survived by his former wife, Mary Poland and their children, Richard E. Poland Jr. (Sophia), Robert Michael Poland (Cyndi), Beverly Brown (W.C.), Susan Jenness (Bill), and Cindy Pittman (Johnny). He is also survived by his former wife, Sarah Elizabeth Barksdale and three step-children, Sharon Elizabeth Stewart, Sarah Kathleen Brandt (Joseph) and Oliver David Barksdale (Patricia); his sister, Claire Skidmore; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Mr. Poland was known for his great sense of humor and quick wit, always being the life of the party. He was a loving father and stepfather. He was an avid boater and had many hilarious exploits that he loved to share. His best friends Pete Booras and Bruno Masters and their families were usually involved in the escapades. Mr. Poland was kind, compassionate, generous and always supportive of his children and their pursuits.
Mr. Poland last attended Monument Point Fellowship which is where the service will be held starting with the family and friends visitation at 11:00am, Wednesday, June 15, 2016. The service will follow at 12:00 Noon. Interment will be in Jacksonville National Cemetery at 2:30pm with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Community Hospice of NE Florida or the benevolence fund at Monument Point Fellowship.