Richard “Rich” S. Rector, 72, passed away December 12, 2025 at his residence in Crystal River. Born in Tampa, FL on January 17, 1953, Rich claimed he was a “Florida Cracker”. Often sharing lessons learned at the family farm and grandma’s house, he told stories of the importance of family, exactly how not to ride a cow, and how to sew up a turtle shell.
A lifelong driver, Rich began his career at 19 driving dump trucks and continued as a long-haul driver for Disney on Ice, Ringling Brothers, Universoul Circus, Admiral Merchants, the Superbowl Franchise, and many more. He finished a meaningful career with his last assignment in the oilfields in Texas.
While hauling through Maryland in 1988, he met his soulmate, Roxie. As a team, and owners-operators of Rector Trucking, they logged hundreds of thousands of miles of work and adventure across North America. During their travels back and forth across the US, they took the time to enjoy the wonders and history of the country, visiting Arches National Park, Corn Palace, Cadillac Ranch, Palo Duro Canyon, Royal Gorge, and more. Their travels inspired their daughters and grandchildren to embrace adventure.
After retiring in 2015 with their beloved Chow Chow, Jake, Rich focused on his passions: fishing, motorcycling, family visits, and caring for Roxie and their adopted cat, Thomas. Rich was known for his generosity in his community, and used his time and skills to help his neighbors. He appreciated and loved his family deeply. Family phone calls began with “It’s my lucky day” and ended with his signature, “Thank you for being you.”
Rich is survived by his step-daughters Rebecca “Becky” (Jay) Kitzmiller of Apex, NC, and Leah (Jeff) Shirley of Buffalo, NY; 3 grandchildren – Katie (Aiden) Kitzmiller, Elia Kitzmiller, and Daniel Shirley. Private arrangements are being handled by Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness, FL. He will be interred alongside Roxie in Prospect Hill Cemetery, York, PA.
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