Richard Steven Jacuzzi, 76, of Bryant, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born on November 6, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Clydia and Tullio Jacuzzi.

In 1963, Richard moved with his family to Little Rock, where they relocated the international headquarters of Jacuzzi Brothers along Interstate 30. The plant was a longtime fixture and landmark in the community. He graduated from Hall High School in 1967, where he was a standout athlete and set a state shot-put record that stood for more than a decade. He went on to attend the University of Central Arkansas, preparing to begin his career in the family business, where he worked until its sale in 1979.

He, along with other family members, went on to start a new hydrotherapy company, Jason International. The name was an acronym for "JAcuzzi SONs," representing the next generation. Richard was passionate about carrying on the family legacy and traditions; he and other members of the Jacuzzi family continued to innovate and lead the industry for more than 40 additional years. He later built a successful career in computer-aided manufacturing software sales and consulting, combining his natural mechanical mind with his love of problem-solving.

Even in "retirement," Richard never truly slowed down. He continued working with a variety of companies, taking pride in teaching younger generations a thing or two. Richard loved working with his hands—golfing, fishing, pouring concrete, yard work, and home improvement projects. If it involved building, fixing, or improving something, he was all in. He never met a tool he didn't like and never passed up a good excuse to buy a new one. He believed in leaving things better than he found them, a lesson passed down from his father. Last year, he fulfilled a longtime dream by building a custom workshop with his own hands—a testament to his determination and craftsmanship.

Of all the titles he held, "Grandpa" may have been his favorite. He always loved holding babies and playing with children, but when his own grandchildren came along, there was no denying who had his heart. His bear hugs, playful spirit, and patient willingness to teach his grandchildren everything from how to use a tool to how to swing a golf club will live on in them. His legacy is not only in the things he built, but in the family he shaped, taught, and loved so well.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Caver Jacuzzi, and his sisters, Linda Jacuzzi Emery and Nancy Jacuzzi Davenport.

Later in life, Richard was blessed with the joy of reconnecting with his childhood friend from St. Louis, Aleta Patneaud. What began as a renewed friendship grew into a deep and meaningful love. Together, they shared laughter, comfort, and a happiness that brought great joy.

He is survived by his two sons: Richard Steven Jacuzzi Jr. and wife Alisha of Alexander, and their children, Isabella Catherine and Grant Christopher; and Casey Caver Jacuzzi and wife Jillian of Benton, and their children, Clay Perry, Hattie Kate, and Erin Elise. He is also survived by three brothers: James Tullio Jacuzzi and wife Marilyn of Mayflower; Andrew Martin Jacuzzi and partner Shannon Maltby of Memphis, Tennessee; and Robert Casey Jacuzzi and wife Michelle of Mountain Harbor; three sisters: Kathy Jacuzzi Fluharty and husband Larry of North Little Rock; Jane Jacuzzi Gavin and husband John of Cumberland, Rhode Island; and Julie Jacuzzi Housholder and husband Gary of Courtland, Kansas; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.

His life was marked by hard work, steady love, and a determination to build something lasting—whether with wood and concrete or with family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 6, at First United Methodist Church in Benton with a reception following in the Fellowship Hall. Arrangements are by Ashby Funeral Home.

Online guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com