Richard Thomas "Buck" Linkous

Richard Thomas “Buck” Linkous, 79, of Inman, SC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Buck was born April 16, 1946, in Fort Worth, Texas, a son of the late Betty Ann (McMechen) Linkous and Otis Graham Linkous.

Richard was a 1964 graduate of Centerburg High School in Centerburg, OH and a 1968 graduate of Defiance College in Defiance, OH. He completed graduate courses at St. Mary’s College in Ft. Wayne, IN and The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH, earning his Master’s Plus 30.

Beginning his career in education, he was a 6th grade teacher at Spencer Elementary School in Defiance, OH before becoming Principal at Mt. Vernon State Institute in Mt. Vernon, OH, developing the first educational program for its residents. Richard later became Principal of Bataan Elementary School in Port Clinton, OH where he served for twenty years before retiring in 1998. His students were a big part of his life and he spoke of them for many years.

Buck was a member of United Methodist Church of the Covenant. Some of his best memories included watching his children grow into wonderful adults; being located close to his grandchildren and being around to see their activities; the 59 years he shared with his best friend; raising and attending Chicken Shows for his Bantams; cheering for his beloved Ohio State University Buckeyes football team; and last, but not least, he loved his two dogs, Titan and Punky.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Karen Sue (Shuff) Linkous: his children, Kristi Beck Miller (Dan), Greg Linkous, and Andy Linkous (Jennifer); his grandchildren, Ridge Beck (Kelly), Janae Beck (Isaac), Cara Linkous, and Grant Linkous; and his sister, Jane (Linkous) Fahrion (Fred).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Spartanburg Humane Society, 150 Dexter Road, Spartanburg, SC 29303 or to United Methodist Church of the Covenant, 9020 Asheville Highway, Boiling Springs, SC 29316.

Floyd’s North Church Street