Richard  Archie Sr. 1940-2021.

Richard Edwin Archie Sr. was born on November 22, 1940 to the late Edward Archie and Leola Howard Archie in Mobile, Alabama. He was the 3rd of 7 children. He was preceded in death by his Son Richard Edwin Archie Jr. Brothers; Edward Archie Jr., Ollie Archie, Charlie Archie, Cliffton Richardson, Sister; Juanita Lilly.

Richard was affectionately known by friends and family as Archie or Big Arch. Archie joined the US Army right out of high school and accomplished a distinguished military career after 20 years of service. He completed multiple tours of duty in Vietnam, Germany, Korea, California, New Jersey, New York and Washington. His distinguished service was noted by such awards as; National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and others. He served his country with honor, bravery and sacrifice.

Upon retirement from the Army in 1977, Archie returned to Washington State and began working for Boise Cascade in the transportation and logistic department. Shortly after that, he started his own successful transportation enterprise that extended 25 years. He enjoyed spending time in the kitchen making such dishes as Gumbo Alabama Style–best, this side of the Mississippi, baked ham, pig feet with his secret seasonings and smoked ribs. Although he traveled the world, his southern roots kept him grounded on the cuisines of Alabama. Fishing on his boat with his sons was one of his favorite pastimes, loved the Oakland (Las Vegas) Raiders unconditionally. Catching up with his Army buddies over a cold beer and barbecue ribs was always a good time. Regardless of the time of year, he never walked past a chunk of his wife’s fruitcake. Archie was big on so many points of life; his physical size, his “can do” spirit and his big hearted generosity to others. His greatest love was for his family, always ready to extend support and a listening ear.

Archie leaves to celebrate his life and legacy; devoted wife of 42 years; Helen Alexander Archie, sons; Ronald (Joan) Archie, Michael McLeod and Delano McLeod, sister ; Elaine(Fletcher)Haley, grandchildren; Germel Archie, Tiffinni Archie, Eddie Hayward, Cressa Boggan, Aajenee (Brandyn) Johnson, Michael McLeod, Silas McLeod, Mikasia McLeod, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Sister in-laws; Lorraine Wynn, Karen McClain, Diane Alexander, brother in-laws; Grover Alexander and Richard Alexander.

He will have a celebration of his life and memory July 2, 2021 at Greater Heights 4819 S 12th St, Tacoma, WA 98405. Visitation Thursday 3-6pm at Scott Funeral Home 1215 MLK Jr Way Tacoma, WA 98405.