COUNTS

Richard Bailey Counts, 79, of Columbus, passed away Sept. 14. He was born in Houston Jan. 30, 1940 to Clarence and Lois Counts. He was married to Lynda Hovey Counts for 59 years. Richard had a lifelong career in public accounting with Arthur Andersen and Company. His specialties in oil and gas and in banking led him to positions as a partner in the Dallas/ Fort Worth area and the Hong Kong offices. After his retirement from Arthur Andersen, he served in many different financial consulting positions, most notably as part of the board for Capitol Farm Credit. Richard had a passion for sailing and travel. He is survived by his beloved wife Lynda, son Scott Counts, daughter Kim Counts Lynch, daughter-in-law Carole Counts, son-in-law James Lynch, and five grandchildren: Kelli Trapnell, Kristen Moreland, Matthew Counts, Caroline Counts and Sammy Clark. Services will be Friday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. at Forest Park East Funeral Home and cemetery, 21620 Gulf Freeway in Webster. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in Richard’s name be sent to the Columbus Garden Club or the Columbus Lions Club.