Richard Eliscu Kipling, a longtime news editor whose mentorship as Director of the Los Angeles Times’ Metpro program opened doors to journalists of color, passed unexpectedly Oct. 27, 2025, at 81. He is survived by wife, Alison Sowden, and her son Walker (Christopher); children Kalin (Omar), Alex, Tyler, Brooke and Chloe, and their mother Kim Krasne; and his brother Ron Kipling (Mary) – not to mention countless mentees, friends and extended family.
Who was Richard?
A consummate newsman, forever interviewing folks wherever he went and championing DEI in newsrooms nationwide. A teacher and mentor, offering guidance to those who needed it. A father who instilled a passion for writing and the outdoors in all his children. An adventurer who was always exploring (mountains, trees, boulders – oh my) and soaking in culture across the U.S. and abroad. An absolute fanatic about soccer – the beautiful game. A voracious reader and knowledge-seeker. And that’s just a small glimpse into who he was. He left an indelible mark on so many and he’ll be so very missed.
Share Your Memories
Was he part of your story? Please share your memories with us, even if you shared them elsewhere.
Celebration of Life
Please reach out if you’re interested in attending Richard’s Celebration of Life in January 2026.
Support a Cause
If you would like to make a donation, please consider a few of Richard’s favorite places – New Mexico School for the Arts or KPCC – or donate to a charity of your choice.
Shared Stories
- 50 Years a Brother
- Remembering Richard Kipling, and the Future of Student Journalism at Caltech
- Health Care Journalist.
- ‘Blossomed under Richard’s wings’
- METPRO 1997
- Not enough words to honor Richard
- Richard the Lion
- ‘A force of nature’
- ‘He leaves behind a legacy of stories — and of storytellers’
- ‘A boss, editor, and mentor I’ll never know the likes of again’
- ‘Forks in the Road’
- ‘Dad has passed …’
Photos
