Meet Richard Deshields | Realtor & Pastor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard Deshields and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richard, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After spending over 25 years in warehouse management, I reached a point where I started reflecting on what truly brought me fulfillment. While I gained a lot of experience and skills in that field, I realized I missed the personal connection and sense of purpose that came from helping others more directly. Starting my own business gave me the freedom to return to something I genuinely love—serving people, building relationships, and making a tangible difference in their lives. It was about rediscovering that passion, having more control over my time, and doing meaningful work that aligns with who I am at this stage of my life.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m a Realtor who finds true joy in helping people—especially first-time homebuyers and veterans—navigate the journey of homeownership. Whether they’re purchasing their first home or their forever home, I’m there every step of the way, making sure they feel confident and supported.

What sets me apart is my passion to serve. I genuinely care about my clients, and I celebrate their wins as if they were my own. Seeing a family get the keys to a home that fits their lifestyle and budget—that’s what drives me.

Getting to this point in business wasn’t easy. It took persistence, a lot of faith, and a willingness to keep showing up even when things didn’t go as planned. But I’ve learned that community makes all the difference—having the right people around you, and being the right person for others.

If there’s one thing I’d want the world to know about my story, it’s that this is more than just real estate for me. It’s about building trust, creating opportunities, and helping people move forward in life. That’s the legacy I’m working to leave.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit for a week, we’d kick things off by attending a powerful church service—that’s just part of who I am, and it sets the tone for everything else. From there, we’d dive into some of Atlanta’s must-see attractions, starting with the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Both are iconic and offer a fun, interactive experience that captures the city’s energy. We’d also take some time to enjoy the beauty and peace of the Atlanta Botanical Garden—it’s the perfect spot to slow down and take in God’s creation.

When it comes to food, we’re definitely hitting up a soul food spot—something that tastes like home. And no trip to ATL is complete without some seafood from Pappadeaux’s. The vibe, the flavor, the whole experience—it always hits.

Throughout the week, we’d make space to connect, reflect, and just enjoy the richness of what Atlanta has to offer—faith, food, and fun, all wrapped up in good company.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I have to give credit to my mother (Thelma Smith). She’s been a constant source of strength and support throughout my life. Even when we lacked in other areas, she made sure we were never without love—and she gave us God. Growing up, learning to love God and love people was just a part of our home. That foundation shaped so much of who I am today.

I’d also like to honor my mentor, the late Elder Harold C. Hines. He had a profound impact on my life, especially in teaching me what it means to be a man of God. Through his example, I learned how to live as a husband, a father, and a leader in ministry with character and integrity. He always emphasized that living the Word was far more important than just talking about it, and that lesson has stayed with me ever since.

Website: https://rickdeshields.legacysouthreg.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtorrickdeshields/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-deshields-37ab6b41

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrrickdeshields/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Realtor_Rick

Image Credits
Photographer – Kimazing Photography Atlanta