Dr. Richard Warren Pharr of Brandon, Mississippi passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024 after a brief illness. Richard, or “Doc” as he was often affectionately called, was born on December 16, 1950 to beloved Jackson area physician Max L Pharr and Betty Jane Pharr (Watson), a longtime instructor at Hinds Community College. He grew up in the Belhaven neighborhood and attended Jackson public schools, graduating with the Murrah High Class of 1968. He enjoyed his time at Millsaps College, where he majored in History and pledged Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He went on to attend medical school at the University of Mississippi, interning in Memphis, Tennessee before finishing his residency at UMC. Richard established his private ophthalmology practice in Brandon, Mississippi, where he cared for patients in the area for over 44 years, continuing in his father’s footsteps as a devoted physician who valued his patients greatly.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Margaret Jane Pharr, his wife Cynthia Ann Pharr (Williams), and his soul brother, Joe Heath Jr. He is survived by his wife, Bettie Lane Norwood Pharr, his daughters Monica Celeste Nettles (Pharr) of Kelso, Washington, and Lindsey Austin Pharr of Asheville, North Carolina, and his grandchildren Austin Warren Boler of Brandon, Mississippi, Emily Marie Gregg of Pearl, Mississippi, and Lane Mitchell Nettles of Kelso, Washington. He is also survived by his sister, Patsy Marsh (Pharr), her husband David Marsh, their children Max David Marsh, Anna Selby (Marsh), her husband David Selby, and their children Sarah Jane, Rue, and Rosie.
Richard is also survived by the many friends he made as a musician, motorcyclist, and marksman. He played in numerous bands in the area throughout his life, from rock n roll to swing jazz to bluegrass to gospel. His gentle way with animals, especially the Quarter horses he raised and the many dogs he rescued, was a testament to his kindhearted nature.
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A “Celebrate Doc” Gathering will be held from 2-5:00 PM on Sunday, September 15, 2024 at Scrooge’s Restaurant at 5829 Ridgewood Rd, Jackson, MS. Please stop by and share a story or two.
Richard and Bettie have worked with and supported Julie Clark’s Life Savers Independent Rescue, which fosters and relocates animals scheduled for euthanasia at local shelters. Donations to this organization are encouraged in lieu of flowers or memorials. Digital donations may be sent to: Paypal: paypal.me/julielovesanimals, Cash App: 4jcc1531, and Venmo: @savingpups
Or an old fashioned check may be mailed to:
Forest Animal Hospital
c/o Julie Clark
1220 West 3rd St.
Forest, MS 39074
