Richard Camburn Covey's Obituary
Richard Camburn Covey (“Covey”) died February 21, 2026, in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He was born September 6, 1944, in Alhambra, California, to Milton C. Covey and Azeitta Camburn Covey, and spent part of his childhood in Guam.
In 1964, Covey enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, serving three years in the North Atlantic and one year off the coast of Vietnam. After his discharge, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art from California State University, Fullerton.
Covey began his career in exhibits at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, where he met his future wife, Nan Lawler. They were married December 12, 1974, in Santa Barbara, California.
After moving to Arkansas, Covey worked at the University of Arkansas Cotton Laboratory and later at the University Museum in exhibits. In later years he worked freelance in design and museum-related projects.
An avid reader, Covey was also building a model railroad empire on the second floor of his stone house, built in 1925.
Over the years, Covey and his wife opened their home to many dogs from shelters around the country.
He is survived by his wife, Nan Lawler of Fayetteville; his sister, Linda Koluvek of Costa Mesa, California; and many cousins, especially Sally Armes of Alhambra, California. He is also survived by Latte, a rambunctious mixed-breed dog from the Springdale Animal Shelter who will miss her daily walks with Covey.
Memorial service will be 4:00 PM Tuesday April 14, 2026, at First Christian Church in Fayetteville. Immediately following the memorial service there will be a reception at First Christian Church.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.
To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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