Richard Neal Sandlin Obituary January 14, 2025

Richard Neal Sandlin, age 79, born in Miami, Florida in 1945 to Walter Lee Sandlin and Melissa Ruth Sandlin handed away January 14, 2025. Even as a baby he confirmed a ardour for historical past, artwork, and images. Richard graduated from the University of Miami the place he attended Army ROTC and commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. After commencement, he was assigned to the Department of the Army Special Photographic Office the place he led images and movie groups documenting the Vietnam War. After the navy, Richard’s love of historical past and delightful landscapes took him to Colorado the place he earned a second diploma from Fort Lewis College. Over the years he lived in Durango, Mancos, Cortez, and at last Albuquerque, the place he labored as a photographer, artist, park ranger, skilled driver, and tour information. Through his in depth information and enthusiastic storytelling, numerous folks gained a deeper appreciation for the Great American Southwest.

He is survived by his son, John Sandlin and his companion, Ally Lowry; daughter, Richenda Sandlin-Tymitz and her husband, Peter Tymitz; granddaughter, Margaret Elizabeth Sandlin; and longtime companion, Fran Roggen.

A ceremony for Richard shall be held Friday, October 3, 2025, 10:30 a.m. on the Santa Fe National Cemetery.