Ricardo “Richard” Villegas, 64, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025. Born on August 18, 1961, in Corpus Christi, Richard was a proud graduate of Miller High School and a lifelong resident who built a life grounded in family and hard work.
In November of 1992, Richard married the love of his life, Diana Zepeda. Together, they shared a beautiful partnership filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion. Their favorite memories included trips to Las Vegas, Houston, and San Antonio—each journey filled with joy and the kind of companionship that only true soulmates share.
Richard worked as a mechanic for Kelton’s Truck Parts for more than twenty years, a career he deeply loved. Known for his skill, and willingness to teach others, he was admired by co-workers and customers alike. He took pride in every job he touched, and even greater pride in helping younger mechanics learn the ropes. His passion for his trade was unmistakable.
At home, Richard found peace in simple pleasures: BBQing for family, maintaining his yard, relaxing after a long day with his favorite TV shows, and enjoying his favorite pastimes—watching wrestling and fishing. His loyal dogs, Lola and Odie, were never far from his side, offering comfort, company, and unconditional love.
Family meant everything to Richard. He cherished being present for his children’s weddings and celebrating every milestone with them. He was known for his quick wit, warm sense of humor, wise advice, and his gift for conversation. Wherever he went, he made friends; with Richard, a simple talk often became a meaningful memory.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Manuel De Jesus Villegas and Santos Villegas, and his siblings Rosalinda Garcia, Maria Elena Lira, and Manuel Villegas Jr.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Zepeda, his children Ricardo (Adriana) Villegas Jr., Sabrina (Jesse) Villegas, and Maria (Manuel) Gallardo, and his treasured grandchildren Micah Villegas, Aidan Villegas, Mariah Pena, Eliziah Pena, and Elliott Pena Jr. He is also survived by his siblings Maria Del Carmen Diaz, Miguel (Mary) Villegas, Josefina “Josie” Newman, Rogelio (Sylvia) Villegas, Reynaldo (Mary) Villegas, Rene Villegas, Elodia “Sally” Villegas, and Belinda Villegas, along with numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and medical staff who cared for Richard with compassion, respect, and dedication. Their kindness brought comfort and their support will always be remembered with appreciation.
Richard will be remembered for his generous heart, his laughter, his stories, and the love he poured into every part of his life. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the family and friends who were blessed to know him.
