The Sedan Times-Star, October 23, 1913:

“Uncle Dick” Speed Dead.

The death of “Uncle Dick” Speed as he was familiarly called, occurred Monday morning at 10:30 at the home of his son, Martin Speed, south of Sedan. Mr. Speed had been in poor health for some time, having suffered a stroke of paralysis two years ago. Last week he had another stroke which resulted in death.

“Uncle Dick” was for many years a familiar character in Sedan, being a general favorite of young and old. He and his drum corps were features of the annual reunions, not only here but in the surrounding locality.

“Uncle Dick” was for many years justice of the peace, and though small in stature, upheld the dignity of his office with great pride. He was a member of the G. A. R. and the I. O. O. F. organizations.

Richard Speed was born in England Sept. 8, 1831 and was 82 years, 1 month and 12 days old. He came to America when 12 years of age and ever after a loyal American citizen. He enlisted in the First Kansas regiment, Co. D and served as a drummer boy throughout the war. He lived for a time at Moline but has long been a resident here. Besides his wife he leaves four children. Mrs. Mary Ackley, Ogden, Utah; Mrs. Lillie McGrew, Moline; Mrs. Cora Jackson, Elk Falls and Martin Speed, Sedan. Mrs. Ackley was unable to be present at the funeral which was held here Tuesday afternoon at the Christian church.

Rev. J. D. McBrian had charge of the services and he paid a very tender tribute to “Uncle Dick”. The G. A. R. Post and the I. O. O. F. lodge held ritualistic services, after which interment was made in Greenwood cemetery.

The Sedan Times-Star, October 30, 1913:

“UNCLE DICK” IS DEAD.

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The End of an Eventful Life---

Moline Advance.

Word was received Monday of the death of Richard Speed, which occurred at Sedan, Monday, October 20, at the ripe old age of 83 years.

Uncle Dick, as he was familiarly called by the old settlers of both Elk and Chautauqua counties, came to Kansas in a very early day, settling on a claim near Old Boston. In the early days of old Howard county he was a well known character, and served many years as a Justice of the Peace at old Boston. About twenty years ago he was elected Probate Judge of Chautauqua county and served two terms with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of the county. After the expiration of the term of office he returned to the farm at Boston, where he lived several years. He moved to Moline about ten years ago and served this township as Justice of the Peace several years, but finally moved back to Sedan, where he has since resided. About two years ago he suffered a stroke of paralysis which left him an invalid and the most of the time since has been confined to his bed. He was a soldier of the rebellion, serving his regiment as a drummer boy. Very few reunions in Southern Kansas that Uncle Dick and his drum have not attended. He raised a large family of children, most of whom are living in Chautauqua county.

Funeral services were held at Sedan Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock.---

Moline Advance.