Richard Frank "Dick" Niemann, 85, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026. Dick was born on March 6, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Harry Niemann and Anna Frank.

After graduating high school, Dick entered the Missouri National Guard then the United States Army. Following his years of military service, he began a long and dedicated career in the steel industry. Working throughout the Midwest with U.S. Steel for more than 25 years.

In the mid1980's, Dick relocated from Chicago to Jacksonville, Florida, where he began his lifelong advocacy and career in the HIV/AIDS field. He founded the People Living with AIDS Jacksonville Coalition (PWA Jax), one of the first organizations in Northeast Florida committed to securing access to care for individuals living with HIV. His pioneering work ensured that many were able to live and die with dignity. Dick's early contributions through PWA Jax, the HIV/AIDS Planning Council and his later work through Lutheran Social Services continue to influence the ongoing efforts of agencies and advocates who support people living with HIV today.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Anna Niemann, and his sister, Doris Ann (Niemann) McBain. He is survived by his nieces Sharon Ann McBain (Florissant, MO) and Sandra Sharon Swaringam (Wentzville, MO); his nephews David Thomas McBain (St. Louis, MO), Steven Thomas McBain (St. Peters, MO), and Michael Thomas McBain (Florissant, MO); as well as his chosen children Mark Henson (Jacksonville, FL) and Heather Vaughan (Ormond Beach, FL), and grandson, Sean Hammond (Jacksonville, FL).

Dick will be missed by all who knew and loved him in the community. All who knew Dick are welcome to attend.

The Committal Service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

Carthage Chapel Funeral Home, Inc., 929 West Beaver Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204