Richard "Rick" Myers

Richard “Rick” Scott Myers, 66, passed away on July 20th, 2023, after a long battle with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD).

Rick was born on December 15, 1956, in Bridgeport, CT, but soon found his roots in Ossining, NY, a town he cherished and called his home. Growing up, Rick was a source of joy and mischief to his little sister Audrey, often weaving humorous tales, like the time he jokingly tried to convince her he was the infamous Boston Strangler.

Rick attended Florida International University, where he excelled in earning both a bachelor's and master's degree. After his studies, he ventured into hospitality management and later embarked on a joint endeavor with his sister Audrey, managing the family business, Plenums, Inc.

Rick's passion extended beyond the realms of business and education. His heart was deeply entrenched in the Jewish community, evident through his various roles, from being the president of the Jewish singles group, to leading as the president of the JCC, and actively participating in the Tampa Jewish Film Festival committee. His dedication was unparalleled, as he also served as a board member at his cherished Rodeph Sholom synagogue, a place that had been dear to his wife’s family for many generations.

Embracing the role of a devoted husband and father, Rick, together with his wife Ellyne, raised two wonderful daughters, Alissa and Stephanie. He was known for creating affectionate and light-hearted nicknames for both of his daughters, as well as many of their friends, adding a sense of humor and joy to the family dynamic. While these nicknames were too ridiculous to be mentioned in an obituary, they will forever remain a cherished part of the family's loving memories.

Fueled by his love for music, Rick was lovingly nicknamed "Rock-n-Roll Ricky" by his daughter Alissa and her friends. One of Rick’s favorite pastimes was attending concerts, where he would bring his daughters and friends to see bands like Greenday. He shared laughter with his daughter Stephanie at a Weird Al Yankovic concert and attended many other shows with his wife Ellyne. Some of the highlights included seeing The Moody Blues, YES, Rolling Stones, Billy Joel, and countless others. Music became an anchor for him and his family, providing comfort during his battle with FTD.

A true sports enthusiast, Rick's love for the New York Giants and Yankees shifted to embrace his new hometown teams, the Tampa Bay Rays and Buccaneers, whom he passionately supported. It was at a Buccaneers game where Rick shared his first date with his beloved wife, Ellyne, as they bonded over their shared love for sports.

Rick's heart was filled with love for his family, friends, business, music, performing arts, sports teams, and pets. His kindness and compassion left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him. 

During his battle with FTD, Rick received compassionate care from the owner and staff at Consuelo's ALF, and his caregivers Fred and Rohan. In honoring Rick's memory, the family kindly requests contributions to be made to theaftd.org or rsholom.org.

Rick was predeceased by his parents, Barbara and Melvin Myers, and in-laws Francine and Bruce LeVine. He is survived by his wife Ellyne (LeVine) Myers; daughters Alissa Myers and Stephanie Myers; his sister, Audrey (Myers) Hollander, and brother-in-law, Shawn Hollander; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dennis and Francine LeVine, Susan and Michael Edgerley; eight nieces and nephews; as well as cousins Mark Myers and Laura Myers, Jay Rosenthal and Joyce Rosenthal, and countless extended family members and friends.

May his memory be a blessing, and may the legacy of his kindness and humor continue to brighten the lives of others in the years to come.

Services will take place at Congregation Rodeph Sholom on Sunday, July 23rd, at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Myrtle Hill Memorial Park. Immediately following the graveside, family and friends are welcome to meet up at The Monte Carlo (3301 Bayshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629)  for food and Shiva at 2:00 PM.  Shiva is cancelled for Tuesday, the 25th and Wednesday the 26th at The Monte Carlo.