Richard Todd Evans, a professor and researcher in the School of Dental Medicine, died July 16 in Beechwood Continuing Care, Getzville. He was 82.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Evans attended Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri, and earned a PhD in microbiology from the University of Missouri.

He also served in the Army, based in Louisiana and Texas, from 1955-57.

Evans began his career with the National Institutes of Health before joining the faculty of the Department of Oral Biology in the UB School of Dental Medicine.

In addition to teaching countless dental students, Evans was a prolific researcher who specialized in the causes of gum disease. He was a member of a research team that developed an antibacterial compound with the potential to treat acne and gingivitis. During his career, he received eight patents for complex chemical compounds.

Evans also was active in the community, serving on the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity and the Amherst Symphony Orchestra. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church.

He spent summers on Hunter Lake in Longville, Minnesota, where he enjoyed camping, fishing and hiking with his family. He was a fan of Buffalo sports teams and enjoyed crossword puzzles, photography and genealogy.