Richard (Dick) Richards was born in Ogden, Utah. He was active in the Republican party and politics from the late 1960s until the 1980s, and served as Chairman of the Republican National Committee from 1981 to 1983.

He served in the United States Army from 1952 until 1955, finishing his service as an officer with the 7th Cavalry Regiment.

Before being drafted he had been active in politics, organizing the Junior Republican League while studying at Weber State College in Ogden, Utah. He was also active in the political campaigns of Douglas R. Stringfellow and Dr. Aldous Dixon, organizing a bi-partisan youth group that helped Dr. Dixon win election to the United States Congress. He now resides near Ogden, Utah with his wife.

The Richard Richards Institute of Weber State University is named in honor of him.