Richard David Gastley

Richard (Dick) David Gastley, Aka Papa October 30, 1933 – February 3, 2025 Born in Clarkesville, GA

Richard "Dick" David Gastley, lovingly known as "Papa," lived a full and remarkable life defined by service, adventure, and an unwavering commitment to family. He passed away on February 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a relentless pursuit of the perfect golf swing.

Dick graduated from South Habersham High School before attending Carson Newman and later earning his degree from Georgia State University. In February 1955, he joined the U.S. Navy and became a Navy pilot in 1956. He flew anti-submarine patrol missions in the Atlantic, Gulf of America, Caribbean, and Mediterranean Seas. Continuing his service in the Navy Reserve from 1956 to 1975, he ascended to the rank of Navy Captain and served as Commanding Officer of the Reserve VP672 and CO of Patrol Airwing 208 in Jacksonville, FL.

Beyond his military service, Dick was a dedicated professional in the aviation industry, working for Association Aviation Underwriters (AAU) from 1959 to 1993, where he retired as Executive Vice President. His professional expertise was matched only by his deep-rooted faith. A past member of Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, he later became a member of Johns Creek Baptist Church after returning to the Cumming, GA area.

In 1959, he married the love of his life, Carol Roth of Jacksonville, FL, with whom he built a beautiful family. He was a devoted father to three sons: Andrew (Andy) Gastley, Michael Gastley, and Daniel (Dan) Gastley. Papa was blessed with four grandsons, Nicholas (Nick), Nathaniel (Nate), Daniel Jr., and David, as well as four great-grandchildren: Benjamin (Ben), Briggs, Franchesca, and Beckett.

 A Life of Passion and Humor

Papa's passions were many, but golf held a special place in his heart. He spent a lifetime perfecting his swing and had firm opinions about handedness—believing everyone should be right-handed. His son Andy was originally left-handed, but Papa’s determination ensured that at least one aspect of Andy conformed to his golfing philosophy. Michael, while ambidextrous, lacked the coordination required for golf, and Dan, to Papa’s delight, was right-handed and became his most successful golfing protégé. While the perfect swing was never fully realized, Papa and Dan spent countless cherished hours together on the course.

Flying was another passion, one he shared with Andy, who earned his pilot’s license. The two spent weekends soaring through the skies, while Michael, skeptical of modern conveniences like escalators and automatic doors, wisely stayed grounded. Dan also preferred his feet firmly planted on the golf course rather than in an airplane.

A Masterful Survivor Papa had a knack for defying fate and "cheating" the Grim Reaper for 91 years. His brushes with death began early—twice being thrown from a speeding boat on Lake Burton, once landing miraculously on dry land. His years as a Navy pilot were fraught with near-misses, including one fateful decision to change flight plans, unknowingly avoiding a mechanical failure that later resulted in a tragic mid-air disaster. He often credited divine providence for his survival and continued good fortune.

A Life Well-Lived Despite his many victories over fate, one final goal eluded him—Papa had hoped to go out on the golf course after shooting his age at 96. "Damn you, Grim Reaper," he would have surely said with a grin. His humor, wisdom, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Fair winds and following seas, Papa. May your golf swing finally be perfect in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dick’s honor to Special Olympics of Georgia or John’s Creek Baptist Church. 

https://support.specialolympics.org/a/georgia?ms=IDMP_WEB&utm_source=www&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP

A celebration of life will be held at 3:30pm Sunday February 16th at John’s Creek Baptist Church. The family invites you to a brief reception immediately following the services.