Richard Lindsay Stafford, Ph.D., a member of the greatest generation, passed away January 14, 2025, at the age of 101. He was born in Florence, Alabama, to Claude and Ethel Stafford, on March 10, 1923. Known as R. L. to his family and Dick to most of his friends, he served honorably in the Army’s 30th Bombardment Squadron during World War Two.
After the war he returned to Auburn University, where he was elected to the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and completed degrees in both history and psychology. He also earned a degree in religion from the Southern Baptist Seminary, Louisville, KY. His PhD in clinical psychology was from the University of Houston with a residency at the University of Texas in Galveston.
He held teaching positions at Stetson University, University of Houston, and the University of Virginia before coming to the University of South Alabama where he remained as a professor until he retired.
Dick is preceded in death by his parents and five brothers. He is survived by his wife Betsy D. Stafford, nephew Larry Stafford, Opelika, AL, niece Penny Stafford, Rock Hill, SC, as well as other nephews and nieces.
He is also survived by his cats Lucy, Gracie, Carly, Sammy, Michael, Bobby Browne, Callie K., Grace K., Big Boy K., and Joey.
Memorials can be made in his name to the SPCA, 620 Zeigler Circle West, Mobile, AL 36608.
In Memoriam