Richard E Campbell
Obituary

Richard E. Campbell, affectionately known as Rich, passed away on May 31, 2026, in Marana, Arizona, at the age of 62.

Born on September 5, 1963, at Wheelus Air Force Base in Tripoli, Libya, Rich lived life on his own terms—with adventure, laughter, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to the people he loved most. Those fortunate enough to know him will remember his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and legendary voicemail messages that were often better than the reason you called in the first place. Rich had a gift for making people laugh and a way of finding joy in even the simplest moments.

Rich embraced life wholeheartedly. He loved motorcycles, classic cars, travel, and camping, finding freedom and happiness on the open road and in the great outdoors. Whether he was planning his next adventure, sharing stories around a campfire, or admiring a beautifully restored classic car, he brought enthusiasm and curiosity to everything he did.

Yet for all the miles he traveled, stories he collected, and adventures he chased, the thing Rich was proudest of was his family. His greatest joy was being a father to his daughter, Austin Carrigg, and his son, Kadyn Hurd. Though their lives were separated by generations, Rich loved each of them deeply and found endless fulfillment in watching them grow into the people they were becoming. He celebrated their successes, encouraged them through challenges, and never stopped believing in their potential.

In his later years, Kadyn became the center of Rich's world, and anyone who knew him knew it. He cherished every opportunity to spend time with his son, sharing his interests, his humor, and the lessons he believed mattered most. Rich was equally proud of Austin and the life she built with her husband,  Joshua. He found great joy in watching his grandchildren, Christian, Nickolas, and Melanie Carrigg, grow and thrive, and if you spent more than a few minutes with him, chances are you heard about them.

Rich leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his years. He taught his children and grandchildren to work hard, keep learning, show up for the people they love, and never stop becoming better than they were yesterday. His belief that knowledge, perseverance, and character could open doors shaped the lives of those he loved and will continue to influence generations to come.

Rich was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lou (Allen) Campbell; his father, Ernest Paul Campbell Sr.; and his brothers, Ernest Paul Campbell Jr. and Harry Allen Campbell.

He is survived by his daughter, Austin Carrigg; his son, Kadyn Hurd; his son-in-law, Command Sergeant Major Joshua Carrigg; his grandchildren, Christian Campbell-Carrigg, Nickolas Carrigg, and Melanie Carrigg; his brother, James Campbell; and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A private Celebration of Life for family will be held at a later date in Fort Myer, Virginia.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Anna Parker, whose compassionate care, kindness, and dedication brought comfort to Rich during the final months of his life. When distance and circumstances made it impossible for family to be by his side every day, Anna cared for him with dignity, patience, and genuine affection. Her support provided peace of mind to those who loved him, and her presence during this chapter of his life will never be forgotten.

Those who loved Rich will remember not only his humor and adventurous spirit, but also his generous heart, his unwavering belief in his family, and his ability to make people feel seen and valued. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his laughter, wisdom, and love will continue to echo through the lives of those he touched.

Rich's life reminds us that success is not measured by what we leave behind for our children, but by what we leave within them. Though he is gone, his wisdom, laughter, and unwavering belief in those he loved will remain with us always.