Celebrating the life of Richard Martin Oliver
April 1, 1953 — October 8, 2026
Richard was born on April 1, 1953 in Statesboro, GA, to Sue Martin Oliver and Hugh Dalton Oliver. He grew up in Glennville, GA, alongside his sibling, Susan Oliver Dowdy. He graduated from Glennville High School and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in history at Georgia Southern College. He later became a business owner, overseeing the operation of several businesses throughout the southern U.S.
Richard was an entrepreneur, inventor, and lifelong problem-solver who enjoyed turning ideas into reality. With his business partner, Jan Baker, at Torque Man Enterprises, he held a patent on an innovative top fuel drag tire and provided high-performance engine kits to circle track racers, truck pull enthusiasts, and the occasional street racer. Later in his professional career, he owned and operated Modern Electronics and Equipment Inc., providing specialized shelling equipment to the US pecan processing industry.
In 1985, Richard married the love of his life, Martha Oliver, in Glennville, GA. Together, they shared 41 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children. Richard was a devoted husband and father who loved to make his family laugh. Outside of work and family, Richard was an avid boater, mechanic, inventor, machinist, and general tinkerer of things. He was happiest when he was working with his hands, figuring out how things worked, or bringing something new to life. Richard’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the faith he shared, the businesses he built, and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for his quick wit, inventive spirit, generous heart, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to those closest to him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Richard’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at Alzheimer’s Association.
For more please visit www.brannenfamily.com/obituaries/richard-oliver
