Richard Olson, Jr.

Richard Neil Olson, Jr., known to many as Rick, passed away on October 24, 2026, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He was born on July 15, 1962, in Corpus Christi, Texas, and will be remembered as a man of remarkable skill, strength, and individuality, whose life was marked by deep love, fierce determination, and a wide range of talents.

Rick was the owner of Midsouth Plumbing for 35 years, a testament to his hard work, dedication, and steady commitment over the course of his life. He approached his work with the same resolve and capability that shaped so many parts of who he was.

He was a man of many interests and extraordinary abilities. Rick loved metal music and carried a spirit that matched its boldness and energy. He was a trained sniper for black ops, a master diver, an amateur astronomer, a self-taught guitarist, a wonderful photographer, a lover of carpentry, and also a master archer. Among the accomplishments he held with pride was teaching himself to play guitar and continuing to play even after losing a finger, a reflection of his perseverance and unwillingness to be defined by hardship. Those who knew him could also hear his favorite saying in their memories: “You can't take a civilized approach to an uncivilized situation.”

Above all, Rick’s life was anchored by the people he loved. He is survived by, Sara Silas, the love of his life. He is also survived by his sister, Sherry Sellers; his mother-in-law, Martha Nassar; his brothers-in-law, Juan Nassar and Antonio Nassar; his sister-in-law, Melissa Nassar; his favorite niece, Kiana Leatherwood; his favorite nephew, Juan Gabe Nassar; his niece Treena Leatherwood and Yance Jones; and Charlie Olson, his only child and beloved cat. Each held a special place in his life, and his memory will remain close to them always.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Mike, and his sister, Lisa.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 PM on Friday, October 30th, at EE Pickle Funeral Home in Amory Ms. Visitation will be held from 12 PM until the service hour. Pallbearers will be Juan, Antonio, and Gabe Nassar, Mike Bearden, Yance Jones, and Larry Pinson. Bro. Jimmy McFatter will be officiating.

Rick will be remembered for his strength, his sharp spirit, his many talents, and the unmistakable way he moved through life on his own terms. His legacy lives on in the stories shared by those who loved him, in the work of his hands, in the music he taught himself to play, and in the lasting impression he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Memories and donations may be made to E.E. Pickle Funeral Home and Crematory.