News Summary
The Chattanooga community pays tribute to Richard Thomas Auten, a distinguished alumnus of McCallie School, who passed away at 80. His lifelong dedication to education, service, and love for gardening left a lasting impact on those he touched. A memorial service will be held on April 10, 2025, to celebrate his remarkable life and contributions.
Chattanooga Community Remembers Richard Thomas Auten, Distinguished Alumnus of McCallie School
Chattanooga is reflecting on the life of a beloved alumnus, Richard Thomas Auten, who passed away on April 5, 2025, at Memorial Hospital. He was 80 years old and his legacy is sure to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Born on May 12, 1944, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Richard’s early childhood was shaped by his family’s experiences during and after World War II. After the war, his family settled in Chattanooga, where Richard would begin a journey that would touch many lives.
Richard attended Missionary Ridge Elementary before continuing his education at the McCallie School, from which he graduated in 1962. His passion for learning led him to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) and later to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). There, he earned a B.S. in Psychology, followed by a M.S. in Educational Psychology in 1968, laying a solid foundation for his professional career.
Upon his return to Chattanooga, Richard dedicated his life to the education of children. He began working as a psychological examiner with Hamilton County Schools, where he was committed to enhancing educational experiences for students. For an impressive 36 years, he assessed the educational needs of children in southeast Tennessee and north Georgia at the Team Evaluation Center, earning a reputation for his compassion and expertise.
Outside of his professional life, Richard was a deeply involved member of the First Christian Church in Chattanooga. His passion for teaching was evident when he served as a Sunday school teacher, Deacon, and Elder. Richard’s devotion to his faith was particularly inspiring; during the recent pandemic, he led a weekly outdoor Bible study and worship at his home, bringing comfort and connection to many.
After retiring, Richard’s thirst for growth didn’t abate. He enrolled in Hamilton County Master Gardener classes, channeling his love for nature into volunteer work, where he maintained gardens for various organizations, including the Chattanooga Food Bank and First Christian Church. His hands-on approach to community service showcased his commitment to both education and the environment.
In 2023, Richard faced a new challenge when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. However, true to his resilient spirit, he joined the Rock Steady Boxing program at the Cleveland Family YMCA. Richard encouraged everyone he met to adopt a mindset of perseverance, emphasizing the mantra “Never Give Up” as he navigated his own health journey.
Survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Emily Auten, Richard leaves behind a family that includes his son, Thomas W. (Gina Liberto) and their two sons, Harrison and Finn; his daughter, Elizabeth P. Auten, and her son, Skyler Hodges; as well as his beloved sisters, Susan Auten (Phil) Newman and Candace Auten Anderson, along with many other relatives who cherished him.
Friends and family have the opportunity to gather and remember Richard on April 10, 2025, set to start at 12:00 PM in the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. A celebration of Richard’s life will follow at 1:00 PM, officiated by John Moeller Jr., honoring all the wonderful memories and contributions Richard made throughout his life.
The family kindly suggests that in place of flowers, those wishing to honor Richard consider making memorial gifts to McCallie School or Mercy Ships—two causes that reflect his dedication to education and service.
With a life well-lived and a spirit that continues to inspire, Richard Thomas Auten will be remembered fondly by his community, family, and friends.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Richard Thomas Auten
- Wikipedia: McCallie School
- Taylor Funeral Home: Herbert Dallis
- Heritage Funeral Home: Lamar Parker White
- Companion Funeral & Cremation Services: James Day
