Richard Hampton Scharar, affectionately known throughout Carrollton as “Mr. Big Chic,” passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at the age of 90.
Born on April 7, 1936, in Washington, D.C., Richard was the son of the late Joseph Scharar and Lillian Link Paris. He spent his formative years in Virginia before moving to Jacksonville Beach, Florida, where he graduated from Fletcher High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. More importantly, met the love of his life, Cecilia Ammons Scharar. Their marriage became the foundation of a remarkable partnership that would span decades in both life and business.
Richard proudly served his country in both the United States Army and the United States Air Force, exemplifying the values of service, discipline, and dedication that would guide him throughout his life.
After their military years, Richard and Cecilia moved to Fort Valley, Georgia, where they opened the original Big Chic restaurant. In 1975, they answered an opportunity that would forever connect their name with the Carrollton community, opening the Carrollton Big Chic. What began as a family business grew into a beloved local institution, serving generations of customers and becoming one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks. In 2025, Richard and Cecilia proudly celebrated the restaurant’s 50th anniversary, a milestone made even more meaningful as the business continues to thrive under its third generation of family leadership.
While many knew Richard as the face behind Big Chic, those closest to him knew a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, whether spending peaceful days on Lake Martin with his brother-in-law and best friend, Winston, or venturing offshore for deep-sea fishing adventures. He also enjoyed cutting grass, appreciating the quiet solitude and peace that came from caring for his property. Those moments outdoors provided a welcome balance to a lifetime of hard work and community involvement.
Faith was a guiding force throughout Richard’s life. He was a longtime member of West Georgia Baptist Temple, where he faithfully served as a deacon and formed many lasting friendships. In later years, he attended Grace Covenant Church. His commitment to his faith was evident not only in his church service but also in the way he treated others with kindness, humility, generosity, and a servant’s heart.
Above all else, Richard was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose steady presence, generous spirit, and strong work ethic left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His legacy lives on not only through the successful family business he helped build but through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to those he loved.
He is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Cecilia Ammons Scharar; his daughter, Michelle Dyer; his son, Richard Scharar; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Christian and Doreen Scharar and Fredrick and Diane Scharar; his cherished grandchildren, Shawn Scharar (Jennifer), Charitie Baker (James), Jason Dyer, Amy Dyer, Jennifer Covera, Terry Covera, Jr. (Nikkie), Felicia Fraidy, and Victoria Miester. He also leaves behind his treasured great-grandchildren, Ariel Reed (Ben), Gavin Scharar, Michael Scharar, Dakota Dyer, Dalten Dyer (Jodi), Kashon Thomas, Keiaritie Thomas, Calleigh Hornsby, Rylan Dyer, and Adrian Dyer, as well as numerous other great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Richard is also survived by his sister-in-law, Arlene Brazell, and her children, Jimmy Brazell, Angie Evans, and Gloria Thomas (Ken), all of whom held a special place in his heart.
In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his son, Terry Covera; his grandson, Benjamin Thomas Dyer; his granddaughter, Stacey Covera; and his brother-in-law and dear friend, Winston Brazell, with whom he shared countless fishing adventures and treasured memories over the years.
Though Carrollton may forever know him as “Mr. Big Chic,” those who loved him most will remember him simply as Richard, a devoted family man, a proud veteran, a hardworking entrepreneur, and a faithful friend. His life was a testament to the idea that success is measured not only by what you build, but by the people you love and the community you serve.
The family will receive friends at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM.
A memorial service will be held to honor and celebrate his life on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 2:00 pm from the Chapel of Martin & Hightower Funeral Home. Shawn Scharar, Ben Reed, Dalten Dyer, and Dakota Dyer will be seated as honorary pallbearers.
The family is deeply grateful for the love, support, and prayers extended during this time. Flowers are welcome and appreciated. For those who wish, memorial contributions may also be made in Richard’s memory to the Tanner Heart & Vascular Center through the Tanner Health Foundation, supporting the advancement of cardiovascular care for patients throughout our community. Donations may be made online at the Tanner Health Foundation Heart Care Giving Fund.
Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the Scharar family.