Richard Beck; Former Mayor of Folly Beach Has Passed Away

With deep respect and sorrow, the Folly Beach community is mourning the passing of former mayor Richard Beck, a devoted public servant whose life was closely tied to the town he loved and helped shape.

Beck served on the Folly Beach City Council from 1978 to 1982 before being elected mayor, a role he held from 1982 to 1989. During his time in office, he worked to guide the city’s development while preserving the unique coastal character and values of the community. His leadership was marked by a strong sense of responsibility toward both residents and the environment.

After his time as mayor, he continued his dedication to preservation efforts, most notably through his long involvement with Save the Light. Through this work, he helped advocate for and protect the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, ensuring its place as a lasting symbol of local heritage and resilience.

Beyond public service, Beck lived a multifaceted life as a dentist, writer, and tour guide, often sharing his appreciation of the coastal environment with others through dolphin tours. Those who knew him describe him as approachable, thoughtful, and deeply committed to his community.

His passing has brought both grief and gratitude to Folly Beach—grief for the loss of a respected leader, and gratitude for the lasting contributions he made. His influence remains visible in the preservation of local landmarks and in the spirit of the community he helped nurture.

He is remembered as someone who dedicated his life to service, stewardship, and leaving his town better than he found it.