Richard “Flash” Gage, beloved son and brother, (65) of Springfield, MO, passed quickly and unexpectedly Dec 29, 2025. Preceded in death by his father, Jasper Calvin Gage, Richard is survived by his mother, Glenda Gage, and siblings Tonyia Gibson, Carl David Gage, April Holland, and Misty Ross. He was very loved and will be missed greatly missed.

Having served over 23 yrs in the US Air Force specializing in communications, Richard retired as a Major. During his service, he earned many medals, served overseas, obtained a master’s degree in science, and earned a world champion title in skeet shooting. Since retiring, he could be found either helping family and friends (moving, computer work, farming, manual labor and more), …OR... at the nearest Taco Bell.

Richard prioritized preserving family history. He dedicated much time to genealogy, and despite living hours away, he became caretaker for his family's Charter Oaks Cemetery. He took care in providing headstones and proper markers for those both known and unknown, at times buying, or helping to make them himself. He did this for loved ones in other areas also.

He enjoyed a good trip, a good laugh, a good movie, a good discount, and an even better Dr. Pepper. He remembered every joke he ever heard and could always be counted on to tell one, whether the situation called for one, or ESPECIALLY if it didn’t. He was easily described as the strongest presence in the room, one of - if not THE - most intelligent people anyone could ever meet. Of the many distinguished honors that could be listed with his impressive career, the time spent laughing, helping, and working alongside others will undoubtedly be the lasting marker of a life filled with service to his country and to those he cared about.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Charter Oaks Cemetery through Misty Ross.

Graveside service with Full Military Honors will be at Charter Oaks Cemetery (Oak Ridge Road in Ravenden Springs) May 2, 2026 at 11 am with a celebration of life luncheon to follow at Oak Ridge Fellowship Church (5749 Oak Ridge Road, a quarter mile past the cemetery).

All Friends and Family welcomed

Everyone is welcome to share stories, laughs, projects Richard helped with or how he impacted your life at the celebration. You may email them also to Misty (ladyacelover@gmail.com) they will be shared with family