Richard S. Garcia

With deepest sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Detective Lieutenant Richard Garcia (“Rich”), a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished brother, brother in law, uncle, cousin, friend, and respected law enforcement officer, who passed away on June 17, 2025, due to health-related complications. He was 57 years old. Born on November 20, 1967, in New York, Rich was raised in a close-knit family where love, loyalty, and the value of hard work were the foundation of daily life. Those early lessons became the core of who he was: a man who loved deeply, served selflessly, and gave his all to the people he cherished. As a young man, Rich moved to North Bergen, New Jersey, where fate would forever change the course of his life when he met his soulmate, his ride or die, and the love of his life—Christine. Their connection was instant and undeniable, blossoming into an adventurous and beautiful 11 year courtship filled with laughter, unwavering loyalty, and dreams built together. Through all of life’s seasons, they stood hand in hand—growing stronger, loving harder, and becoming each other’s best friend and anchor.

In 2006, they were married, officially beginning nineteen years of marriage that were nothing short of extraordinary. Their love was not just a bond but a partnership built on faith, joy, sacrifice, and endless adventure. Whether they were traveling, enjoying simple moments at home, or navigating life’s challenges, Rich and Chrissy faced everything with unity, humor, and unconditional love. He adored Chrissy with every fiber of his being and made it a point to show her, not just in grand gestures but in the everyday acts of love and support that defined their marriage.

Together, they raised two incredible children—his little girl, his princess, Bryanna, and his pride and joy, his son, Aiden. Richard was a father in the truest sense: hands-on, present, and whole-hearted. He never missed an opportunity to be there—whether it was school events, family dinners, bedtime stories, or long talks about life and the future. He celebrated their wins, guided them through their struggles, and was always their biggest fan. He loved watching Bryanna and Aiden grow into strong, confident and driven young adults. Rich’s greatest joy in life was his family. No matter how demanding his work became, he always put Chrissy, Bryanna, and Aiden first!! He lived every day with the goal of giving them a life full of safety, joy, and love. His family was his EVERYTHING—his reason, his peace, and his purpose. The love he poured into them, lives on in every memory, every tradition, and every value he instilled.

He wasn’t just a husband and father—he was , their provider, their protector, the heart of their home and their HERO. His absence leaves an unimaginable void, but the love he gave so generously will remain the foundation that will stand forever. Rich lived his life in service to others. He joined the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office in 2001, embarking on a career that would span 24 years of dedication, honor, and exceptional service. He worked in various roles, rising to the rank of Detective Lieutenant, and serving with distinction in internal affairs, background investigations, patrol, bicycle, detective bureau court process operations, and the Motorcycle Unit. As a young police officer at the time, Rich volunteered as a first responder at ground zero following the 9/11 attacks in 2001. He proudly served as a motorcycle officer, a role he loved dearly. Whether escorting dignitaries, leading funeral processions, or participating in community events, Rich’s presence was both commanding and professional. Rich was also an esteemed member of the Hudson County Regional Motors Unit, where his skill, precision, and pride in his work earned him admiration from many departments across the region.

In 2019, Richard was assigned on loan as a Task Force Officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (“FBI”) in Newark, where he brought his decades of experience to federal investigations. His calm leadership, strong ethic, and collaborative spirit made him an asset to every team he joined. But what truly set Rich apart was not just his rank or accomplishments—it was the heart he brought to every interaction. He had a huge sense of humor, the kind that could lift the room and put people at ease no matter the circumstances. His laugh was contagious, and he never missed a chance to crack a joke or share a story. He was the kind of person you wanted by your side on a tough day—steadfast, genuine, and full of life. His humor, much like his strength, was a gift to all who knew him. Rich earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice from Hudson County Community College, and throughout his career, he emphasized the importance of education and mentorship. He took great pride in guiding young officers, always leading by example with patience, kindness, and wisdom.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and integrity. Rich is survived by his wife Christine, his daughter Bryanna, and his son Aiden—the three people he loved more than life itself. He is also survived by his loving siblings, sister in laws, brother in laws, nieces, nephews, extended family, and the countless friends and colleagues whose lives he touched so deeply. Rich’s watch may have ended, but his light will never go out. He will be remembered for his courage, his humor, his humility, and most of all, his boundless love for his family & friends, and colleagues. The world is a little dimmer without him, but those who knew him will carry his memory forward—forever grateful for the time they shared with a truly remarkable man. Rest easy, Rich. You’ve earned your Peace. Your legacy lives on—in every badge, every heart, and every mile ridden in your honor.

A visitation for Richard will be held Tuesday, June 24, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Leber Funeral Home/ Mack Memorial Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ 07094. The funeral mass will be on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at SS Joseph & Michael Roman Catholic Church, 1314 Central Ave, Union City, NJ 07087.