Dick when he was the Director of aerial photography on the film, “Firebirds” in 1988. (Photo by Ken Hackman)
Richard Townsend Stevens, Capt., USAF
Member Directors Guild Of America and University of Denver Graduate, Class of 1969
It is with great sadness that I notify you of the passing of Richard T. Stevens.
Richard passed away due to illness on February 19, 2019. Beloved husband of Harriet Katz-Stevens for 25 years, there were no children born to the couple.
Richard “Dick” Stevens served in the U.S. Air Force as a photographer (still and motion picture) during the Vietnam era and conflict after obtaining his college degree. He was an honorary member of The Thunderbirds, the precision aerial exhibition team of the United States Air Force.
Capt. Stevens was also a member of the Directors Guild of American, having contributed his considerable talent, experience and expertise to a number of Hollywood feature film motion pictures that contained or required aerial flight photography, scenes and images. “Dickie”, as those close to him called him, was highly respected and trusted by pilots and technicians attached to military aircraft, thus he was a natural fit for that type of work and assignment. Even the Navy pilots loved him.
His screen credits include work as aerial coordinator on “Top Gun” and as second unit director on “Firebirds” and “Hot Shots”.
Richard is survived by his wife, Harriet Katz-Stevens and his brother, John B. Stevens.