

He was born on November 27, 1946 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Jackemo and Olga (Wolfe) Montesi. Richie lived a life defined by devotion to his family, pride in his service to his country, and kindness to everyone he met.
He received his education at Linden McKinley, Barber School in Las Vegas. Richie proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969, a commitment that remained a lifelong source of pride. After his service, he built a career through dedication and reliability, working in sales and delivery for Pepsi, SunTV, and Armor Swift-Ekrich.
In 1969, Richie married the love of his life, Shirley (Brumfield) Montesi, beginning a beautiful partnership that lasted 56 wonderful years. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and countless treasured memories.
Richie’s greatest joy was his family. He is lovingly remembered by his son, Richie Montesi and daughter-in-law Bridget Montesi, and his grandsons Gavin and Derek, who were truly his whole world.
Richie is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Montesi. He is also survived by his sisters, Teresa Ziegenbush and Linda Shirtzinger (husband Joe Shirtzinger); sisters-in-law Elizabeth Ford, Darlene Arthur, and Patty McCloud; brothers-in-law Maurice Brumfield and Jimmy Brumfield; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were blessed to know him.
Richie had a passion for Ohio State football, enjoyed playing Texas Hold’em poker, and could often be found trying his luck at the slot machines. More than anything, he loved spending time with the people he cared about. He was a loving, devoted, thoughtful, and giving man who loved God, his family, his Marines, and his Buckeyes. Richie had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome—he truly never met a stranger.
In addition to his parents, Richie was preceded in death by his mother- and father-in-law, Gilda and Maurice Brumfield, as well as his grandparents and many cherished aunts and uncles.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project and the Special Olympics. The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of Crown Pointe Care Center and the nurses and aides with Bella Care Hospice.
Visitation will be held at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast, 1051 E Johnstown Road, Gahanna, OH 43230, US, on March 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church, 807 Havens Corners Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230, US, on March 18, 2026, at 10:30 am.
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