Richard "Lou" Louis Barish

Richard Louis Barish (“Lou”), 87, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026.

Born on February 10, 1939, in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late John Barish and Julia (Orgavon) Barish.

Lou was a proud Army veteran and spent 26 years working in a steel mill. He later became a private pilot and flight instructor, teaching many students over the years. In time, he owned and operated both a tree and lawn service and an antique shop. Lou’s love for the Lord and his many friends was unmatched, but most important to him was his family, who surrounded him with love. He was the perfect example of a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. An avid reader, Lou was a dedicated member of the library. In addition to reading the Holy Bible daily, he read hundreds of books and was known for his speed reading. He also brought joy to others with his entertaining magic card tricks.

He will be missed every minute of every day.

In addition to his parents, Lou was preceded in death by his daughter, Denise Marie Barish; and his siblings, John Barish Jr., Leroy Barish, Elaine Barish Barrett, and Eileen Barish Campbell.

Lou is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Barish; his daughter, Marcella Gibson (Marcy Barish); his son, Richard (“Butch”) Barish Jr. and his wife, Jennifer Barish; his grandchildren, Rachel Irwin and Victor Molina, Megan Marquis and Kaleb Marquis, Rhiannon Gibson, Anderson Barish, and Coleman Barish; and his great-grandson, Jack Marquis.

Per Lou’s request, all services are private. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation ~ Mount Pleasant, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, (843) 884-3833.