Richard James Teller

March 8, 1962 – c. June 5, 2026

They say that if life is a song, you should play it loud, keep the beat, and never miss a chance to make someone smile. Richard James Teller did exactly that. At 64 years old, Richard took his final bow, passing away at his home in Salem, Ohio, around June 5, 2026. While our hearts are heavy, we can’t help but smile thinking of the joy, laughter, and rhythm he brought into the world.

Richard’s story began on a sunny March 8, 1962, in San Francisco, California, born to his loving, late parents, Richard James and Barbara Jean (Canon) Teller. Growing up in California, Richard was a man of many talents and deep passions. He earned his bachelor’s degree in music production—a testament to his absolute, lifelong love for music. Whether he was listening to a great track or sitting behind a drum kit keeping the beat, music was the soundtrack to his soul. But Richard also had a deeply protective and community-minded heart, which led him to serve his community as a police officer during his years in California.

In 2017, Richard decided to trade the West Coast for the warmth of Ohio, moving to the Salem area. He became a familiar, friendly face around town, working for a time at Giant Eagle, where he did what he always did best: made people laugh. Richard was a natural-born jokester with a quick wit, always ready with a smile or a line to brighten someone’s shift or make a stranger’s day just a little bit lighter.

When he wasn’t making people chuckle or drumming up a storm, Richard found his peace out in the quiet of nature. He loved the simple beauty of the outdoors, finding a quiet rhythm in the trees and the open air that matched the music in his heart.

Richard is now joyfully reunited in the great beyond with his beloved wife, Linda Carlson, who preceded him in death. We like to think they are finally back together, sharing a laugh and catching up on lost time.