Richard Padilla was born March 11, 1968 in Brooklyn, NY to the late Anibal and Ana Padilla. Richard grew up in Queens, NY where he enjoyed family time and the New York Yankees. The family then moved to Jamaica, NY where he graduated from Jamaica High School in 1986. After graduation, he worked as a manager at Barnes and Nobles before relocating to Florida in 1991. As Richard said, “He came to find his wife”.
In October 1991, while working at Toys R Us, he met his wife Valerie whom he married August 29, 1992. Together they have four children; Johnie, Jessica, Olivia, and Javier. Richard attended the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale in 1993 to expand his creative mind in music and video. He earned an A.S. degree in music and video production in1995. In January 1996, he joined American Express where he worked for 24 years until his untimely passing. As a dedicated, loving, and supportive employee, he gained recognition from many superior leaders. He worked in several departments over the years until he received a promotion as a Customer Care Professional/Coach. In additionally, known for his innovative sense of humor and bright smile, Richard coached baseball, soccer, and basketball for 14 years. He gained recognition as an amazing coach and mentor to other coaches and his players.
Richard accepted Christ in his life in 1992. He joined Holy Mission of Jesus Christ, then in 2010 attended Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale. His faith in God was so unmatched. The light of God that was in him shined so bright, that his impact on people will always be remembered.
Richard leaves to cherish his memories a loving and devoted wife, Valerie Padilla; four children: Johnie Graddy IV (Selika), Jessica Graddy, Olivia Mims (Willie), and Javier Padilla; Antonio Samuels, who was embraced as a son; sister, Margarita Thomas; mother-n-law: Rosa Stokes; father-n-law: Buford Stokes; two precious loving granddaughters: Ayla Mims and Selika Graddy IV. Three very devoted friends: Anthony Basemore, Ronnie Ruiz, and Amelia Diaz. Along with six brother-n-laws, two sister-n-laws, and a host of many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and co-workers.
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