Richard E. Hewitt, Sr., 81, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Montrose Health Center in Montrose, Iowa.

Richard was born on June 4, 1944, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Victor Hewitt and Goldie (Land) Miller. On July 9, 1982, he was united in marriage to Carolyn Blakely, she survives. When it came to his career, Richard did it all. He worked in businesses ranging from a tomato factory to iron working, but his favorite jobs involved working for himself. With his family around him, he performed handyman jobs, roofing and tree service for many, many years.

Richard was of the Christian faith and loved listening to Elvis and George Strait. He loved to travel, dragging his family to flea markets, car shows, races and other events around the country. He even toured Graceland, Elvis's home. Armed with Mountain Dew in hand, Richard could be found enjoying the great outdoors, especially the Mississippi River. A lover of animals, Richard could be considered a "cat lady" and the ducks at the river impatiently awaited his arrival, knowing they would soon be fed.

Richard is survived by his wife Carolyn Hewitt of Keokuk; five children: Richard E. Hewitt, Jr., Linda (Guadalupe) Vazquez, Rex Blakely, Brenda Moss and Norma (Eddie) Young; fourteen grandchildren: Rosalinda, Hector, Lillianna, Jose (Liz) and Guadalupe, Jr. Vazquez; Alexys Troxell, Brandon, Cory, Kaileigh and Jordan Moss; Spencer (Fiancé Aliceia Fisk) Padgett, Cassie (Tim) Johnston, Cheyenne and Austin Burgess; great-grandchild Sophia Vazquez and one on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents; four siblings: Norma Brooks, Ray Hewitt, Carolyn Shallenberger and Mary Hewitt; and a great-grandchild.

Services will be held at 8 pm on Monday, May 11, 2026, at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 pm on Monday, May 11, at the funeral home directly before the service.

Memorials may be made to the family in care of Carolyn Hewitt.