Richard W. Beatty

Richard William Beatty was born on May 20, 1948, in McComb, Mississippi, the eldest son of the late Thomas William Beatty and the late Dorothy Elaine McAllister. Growing up Richard was influenced by the faithful prayers of his grandmother, who helped plant the seeds of faith that would shape his life and ministry.

An outgoing student at Walker High School, Richard met Marilyn Sibley, a beautiful cheerleader, the summer before his senior year. That meeting began a love story that would last a lifetime. During his high school summers, Richard also served in the United States Merchant Marine.

A life-changing church service led Richard to give his heart to Jesus Christ, setting the foundation for a life devoted to faith and ministry. After attending International Bible College in San Antonio, Texas, Richard embraced God’s calling on his life for ministry. On June 28, 1969, he married Marilyn, and together over the years they welcomed four sons: Gregory, Timothy, Jeffrey, and Stephen.

In March 1980, Richard and Marilyn founded Abundant Life Church in Denham Springs, Louisiana. Inspired by John 10:10 and the promise of abundant life through Jesus Christ, they built a thriving church family dedicated to sharing the Gospel and reaching people. 

Above all, Richard loved his family. He was a devoted husband and father who treasured time with his four sons and delighted in creating lasting memories. Known for his larger-than-life personality, humor, and storytelling, he also enjoyed preparing his “world-famous” jambalaya and the gooey butter cake his family loved.

To his grandchildren, Richard was the beloved “Pawpaw,” offering love, encouragement, prayer, and treasured memories. His unselfish spirit, joyful heart, and unwavering faith were evident in the way he lived, loved, and served others.

In March 2015, after 35 years of faithful service, Richard and Marilyn entrusted the leadership of Abundant Life Church to the next generation. The church and family they built continue to carry forward the legacy of faith and service.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Marilyn; his four sons and their wives, Gregory and Christina, Timothy and Traci, Jeffrey and Crystal, and Stephen and Melissa; and his grandchildren, Brooks, Kate, Dru, Savannah, Ethan, Tyler, Ava, Briggs, and Berkley. He is also survived by his siblings, Jocie Beatty, Frances Beatty and Joe Millet, mother-in-law Denise Sibley, extended family, countless friends and church family members.

Richard devoted his life to loving people, sharing the Gospel, and pointing generations to Jesus Christ. Though his earthly journey has ended, the seeds of faith he planted will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the “Richard W. Beatty Memorial Fund.” Contributions may be made online at www.abundantlifechurch.tv or mailed to the Abundant Life Church office.