Rick, Jackie, and I grew up in the Orange Hill neighborhood in St. Petersburg and went to the same schools. Rick’s family and mine moved into their new homes in 1954. Jackie’s family arrived in 1959. So we have known each other since early grade school. Back then he was “Ricky” to everyone, and as teenagers, he taught me dance steps in my living room while he was hanging out with my brother. When I was 14 he was also kind enough to take me to my ninth grade prom - I invited him! I don’t remember too many details of it, but he brought me a corsage, and his mother drove us to and from the dance. That was our one and only date. Rick’s parents, Frank and Marge, were best friends with my mom and step-dad for many decades. Our families were entwined in friendships.
Rick was kind, sensitive, warm, generous, and funny. He was the perfect mate for Jackie, and she has always known how lucky she was to have married him. I don’t know anyone who would disagree that he was a perfect gentleman at all times and in every sense of the word.
As we have grown older, Jerry and I have cherished our friendship with Rick and Jackie, and it has meant so much to me personally. Even though in adulthood we have lived across the country from each other, we always spent time together when I visited Florida. And as with good friends, whenever we meet, it seems we’ve never been apart. I thank Jackie and Rick for supporting me through the death of my parents and step-parents.
My heart goes out to Jackie, to Rick’s sister, Suzy (Dorene), and the rest of their families. Rick's gentle essence will always be in our hearts.
Jane Cade Robin
