Richard Francis Izzo

Funeral services for Richard Francis Izzo, 90, of Thomasville will be at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at the First Baptist Church Chapel of Thomasville, GA. Rev. Hugo Izzo, son of the deceased, and Rev. Dan Spencer will officiate. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Dixie, GA. Mr. Izzo died on November 14, 2009 in Thomasville after an extended illness. Born April 10, 1919 in Ellwood City, PA, he was the son of the late Guiseppe and Augusta Palmese Izzo. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Gail Berner Izzo and his sister, Mary Melito of Ellwood City, PA. He is survived by sons, Richard Izzo, Jr. of Thomasville, Hugo Izzo of Wilmington, NC, Dean Izzo of Thomasville, and his daughter Maria Izzo Champion of Destin, FL. Daughters-in-law, Holly Izzo and Chollet Izzo and son-in-law Steve Champion are also part of this loving family. He was affectionately known as 'Granddaddy Dick' by his five loving grandchildren, Aubrey Izzo, Samuel Izzo, Michael Izzo, Jenna Long and Colby Izzo. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Betty Bartoletti, and Anna Beatrice, along with his three brothers, Adam Izzo, Alfred Izzo and Rudy Izzo. He and Gail were married on March 5, 1966 at First Methodist Church in Thomasville. After graduating from University of Georgia, Mr. Izzo was treasured in the community as a pharmacist and owner of Izzo Pharmacy for over 50 years. He was an award winning photographer, and was best known for his 'Bird in Flight' pictures and his slide show presentation of birds presented to civic clubs and schools, as well as the Audubon Society. A true renaissance man, Mr. Izzo enjoyed showcasing his wood-working skills by building hand-made guitars as a hobby. As sponsor of the Izzo's Pharmacy Bowling team, he led them to many victories with his signature left-handed delivery. He was a charter member of both the Exchange Club and Glen Arven Country Club. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association c/o Vicky Lute, P.O. Box 1999, Thomasville, GA 30345. The family will receive friends from 6:00 ? 8:00 PM on Monday evening at the Allen & Allen Funeral Home Chapel. Family and friends may sign the on-line guest registry at www.allenfh.com .