Richard Aponte

Richard Aponte, age 84, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and generosity. Born on September 20, 1941, in Manhattan, New York, Richard carried the vibrant spirit of his hometown throughout his life.

A proud graduate of the High School of Fashion Industries in 1959, Richard had an eye for creativity and a heart full of joy. He was a devoted member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Mint Hill, North Carolina, where his faith and kindness touched many.

Richard’s life was filled with the simple pleasures that brought him—and those around him—immense happiness. He loved playing Rummi Kub and card games, dancing to his favorite tunes, watching movies, and spending time on vacations and at family gatherings. Wherever there was laughter and noise, Richard was sure to be at the center of it—earning him the affectionate phrase, “where there's noise, he's the one.”

Family and friends will remember Richard as fun-loving, loud in the best way, and full of humor. He was dependable, humble, and a positive influence on everyone he met. His contagious laugh, selflessness, kindness, and generosity made him not just a good citizen, but a truly beloved soul.

Richard’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, as a man who gave love freely and made the world brighter with his presence.

He is survived by his loving wife, Aida Aponte, his children; Sandra Aponte-Winnegar and husband, Jeffrey, Suzzette Giordano and husband, Anthony and Richard Aponte, seven grandchildren; Christine Galeon, Danielle Rivera, Arianna Feliciano, Marissa Heard, Christina Winnegar, Olivia Giordano and Anthony Richard Giordano, nine great grandchildren; Cassandra Douthwright, Demetrius Heard (DJ), Daniel and David Galeon, Elianna Heard, Alexander Edward, Gabriella Galeon, Ava Edward and Eloryana Zeonnes, brother, Charles Aponte and sister in law, Anna Aponte.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 12:00 PM at McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227 with a reception immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be sent to St. Jude Children's Hospital in Richard's honor.