Richard McAllister, age 82, of Maryland Heights, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at Mercy Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Richard was born on December 30, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Booker McAllister and Mae Norris McAllister. He graduated from Soldan High School in 1962 and continued his education at St. Louis Forest Park Community College, where he earned his associate degree.

In 1966, Richard proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. He served aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, operating radar systems in the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War. His service to his country was a source of great pride and honor throughout his life.

Following his military service, Richard began a distinguished 35-year career with McDonnell Douglas in the aerospace division. As a skilled cockpit mechanic, he worked on the F-18 Hornet and F-15 Strike Eagle aircraft, contributing to the excellence and safety of American aviation.

While working at McDonnell Douglas, Richard met the love of his life, Mildred Williams. They were united in marriage in 1970 and shared a devoted and loving partnership. From this union were born three sons: Byron McAllister, Warren Brad McAllister, and Brandon McAllister. Richard was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather who deeply cherished his family.

A man of strong faith, Richard was a faithful member of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as the head of the usher board. His commitment to his church

and community reflected his servant’s heart and deep devotion to God. He also sang in the male choir for years. In later years, he also attended Church on the Rock in St. Peters, Missouri, continuing his walk of faith and fellowship.

Richard took great pride in watching his three sons play high school football. From 1984 to 1992, he could be found each fall in the stands at Hazelwood West, enthusiastically cheering them on. Rain or shine, his unwavering presence and spirited support were a true reflection of his deep love and dedication as a father.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Mildred McAllister of Florissant; his sons Byron McAllister of Columbia, Missouri; Brad McAllister (Arina McAllister) of Mehlville, Missouri; and Brandon McAllister of Chicago, Illinois.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren: Jazzmyn R. McAllister of San Tan Valley, Arizona; Avery Booker McAllister of Mesa, Arizona; Aiden B. McAllister of Florissant, Missouri; William B. McAllister of Chicago, Illinois; and Brendon William McAllister of Chicago, Illinois, step grandson Demetrius McAllister of Columbia, Missouri.

Richard is survived by his sisters Alice McAllister of St. Louis, Mae Boelter of Cool Valley, Missouri and Gillie Vanderson of St. Louis. He is also remembered by his nephews Steve Graham (Jackie Graham) of Sheboygan, Wisconsin; Leslie McAllister of East St. Louis; his nieces Jackie McAllister of Washington, D.C., Angela Corvington (Roland Corvington) of Wildwood, Missouri, and Kennedy McAllister of Florissant Missouri. Uncle Elgin Norris of Las Vegas, Nevada. Brother-in-law Ludorce Red Williams (Sandra Williams) of Chesterfield, Missouri. Sisters-in- law Frankie Henderson of Florissant, Missouri and Sunaganata McAllister of Westchester County, New York

He was preceded in death by his parents, Booker and Mae McAllister; his brothers Bill McAllister and Kenneth McAllister; and his nephew Brendon Booker McAllister.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at Fresenius Dialysis Center in Creve Coeur for their years of compassionate care and support.

Richard will be remembered for his strength, dedication, steady faith, and deep love for his family. His legacy of service — to his country, his church, and his loved ones — will continue to live on in all who knew him.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2Timothy 4:7