News Summary
Richard Colclough, a former Augusta Commissioner, has passed away at his home at the age of 86. He served for nearly seven years, making significant contributions to the community through various initiatives, including the Weed & Seed program. His resignation from the Board of Commissioners did not stop him from engaging with local affairs until his last days. His recent support for community projects illustrates his dedication to making Augusta a better place to live. Colclough’s passing, shortly after the death of another former commissioner, marks a poignant moment for the city’s political landscape.
Augusta, Georgia – Former Augusta Commissioner Richard Colclough passed away at the age of 86 due to natural causes. His death occurred at his home in Hephzibah on Friday, May 16, 2025. The Richmond County Coroner, Mark Bowen, confirmed the news of his passing.
Colclough served as a commissioner for Augusta Richmond County for nearly seven years, representing District 4. He was elected to two terms, although he resigned in April 2006 before completing his second term. In his resignation letter, he stated that serving the community was a rewarding experience and that he intended to pursue other personal and professional goals.
His political career began when he was appointed as a replacement for former Commissioner Moses Todd during Todd’s campaign for Mayor in 1998. Prior to his role as commissioner, Colclough held the position of neighborhood association president and was actively involved in state government work, establishing a solid foundation for his later political endeavors.
Colclough was dedicated to community service, notably helping to implement the anti-crime initiative called the Weed & Seed program in Barton Village, aimed at fostering safer environments in neighborhoods. In 2006, he also ran for the Georgia House of Representatives but lost in the Democratic primary to former Mayor Hardie Davis.
His contributions to Augusta did not end with his resignation from the Board of Commissioners; he remained active in local affairs up until his death. Recently, he was seen at a news conference in March 2024, where he expressed his support for Mayor Garnett Johnson’s initiatives aimed at improving the community.
Colclough’s death comes just days after the passing of another former Augusta commissioner, Bernard E. Harper, who was found dead on May 13, 2025. These losses mark a significant moment in the history of Augusta’s political landscape and community service legacy.
Moses Todd, who previously appointed Colclough, reflected on his character, describing him as a great person and noting his independent spirit and influential relationships at the state level and with fellow commissioners. Colclough’s legacy will likely be remembered through his months of dedicated service to Augusta and his impact on local government and community engagement.
As the Augusta community processes the news of Colclough’s passing, many remember his commitment to improving the lives of residents and fostering a sense of community through active participation in various initiatives. His contributions to Augusta will be missed as the city continues to navigate its future without the guidance of this dedicated public servant.
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Additional Resources
- WJBF News
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- WRDW News
- Google Search: Richard Colclough
- The Augusta Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta
- WRDW Video Report
- Google News: Richard Colclough
- Augusta Chronicle

Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.