FUNERAL SERVICE: A private memorial service will be held at South Florida National Cemetery in February.
SHIVA: Shiva will be observed at the home of Kelly and Ron Lehman on Thursday, January 29, at 7 pm. Please text Kelly or Ron for the address.
OBITUARY:
Richard Fred Lehman passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, at the age of 89.
Richard was born on March 28, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, to Janice (Levy) and Irving Lehman. He was raised in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn alongside his younger twin sisters, Gail Lehman Wiesemann and Carol Lehman Finkel. His Brooklyn upbringing stayed with him always, shaping a deep affection for the city, its people, and its sports teams.
He attended Midwood High School and was a proud graduate of New York University. Richard spent many years working as a buyer of piece goods in the garment industry, a career that reflected his sharp eye, dependability, and quiet pride in doing things well. He also served his country as a Private in the United States Army.
Richard was the loving father of three sons—Jeff, Ron, and Brett—who were the center of his world. He was a devoted dad and later a joyful Grandpa/Pop Pop/Popsicle to eight grandchildren. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, always steady, present, and kind.
Richard shared 26 loving years of marriage with his wife Lucy (Rodriguez), the love of his life. Together they built a life in Lake Worth, Florida, where they spent many happy years until Lucy’s passing in 2019.
Richard will be remembered for his kindness, gentle nature, and unwavering devotion to his family. A lifelong sports fan, he grew up loving the Brooklyn Dodgers and remained loyal to the Mets and the Jets. He coached his boys in baseball and basketball, giving generously of his time and energy, and continued cheering them on long after the final whistles and last innings. He also took great pleasure in organization, attention to detail, and caring for his bonsai trees—small things tended with patience and care.
Some of Richard’s happiest memories were made at Neponsit Beach and Riis Park in Queens, where he spent countless weekends with his young children, soaking up the sun, sand, playing running bases, teaching the boys how to ride waves, searching for blue and red glass in the sand and the simple joy of being together.
Last year, when it became time to move closer to his son Ron, Richard joined the community at Brickmont of Roswell. Though the move required stepping outside his comfort zone, he quickly became a cherished presence, forming meaningful friendships and always looking forward to afternoon bingo—especially when it came with a candy bar win. His family is deeply grateful to the compassionate caregivers at Brickmont,
especially Brandon, Wale, and Teaiva, and to Frida at Agape Hospice, whose kindness and care brought comfort, dignity, and peace in Richard’s final days.
Richard was predeceased by his parents, Janice and Irving; his sister Gail; and his beloved wife Lucy. He is survived by his sons Jeff (Chari) Lehman of Morganville, NJ, Ron (Kelly) Lehman of Atlanta, and Brett (Robyn Louridas) Lehman of Bloomingdale, NJ; his sister Carol of Boston; and his eight grandchildren: Stephanie (Austin Pollack), Danielle, Jake, Zac, Drew, Sam, Noah, and Emma Lehman.
Richard lived a life rooted in love, loyalty, and quiet decency. He leaves behind a legacy of steadiness, warmth, and devotion, and he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HAMSA at Jewish Family and Career Services of Atlanta or the Wounded Warrior Project.
A private memorial service will be held at South Florida National Cemetery in February. Shiva will be observed at the home of Kelly and Ron Lehman on Thursday, January 29, at 7 pm. Please text Kelly or Ron for the address