Richard Paul Santa Cruz

Richard Paul Santa Cruz, 55, passed away in Mesa, Arizona on April 25, 2026. Richard was the youngest of three children of his late parents Ronald Santa Cruz and Edie Santa Cruz. He is preceded in death by his sister, Ann Marie Latchford, and his wife, Karey Santa Cruz. He is survived by his three children, Noah Santa Cruz, Christopher Santa Cruz, and Cole Santa Cruz, his sister, Syria (Matt) Watson, his brother-in-law, Allen Latchford, his nephews, Benjamin (Pamela) Watson, Matthew (Michelle) Watson, and Aaron (Taylor) Latchford, and his stepmother, Karen Santa Cruz.

Richard was a lifelong Arizona resident and a graduate of Corona Del Sol High School in Tempe. He enjoyed playing sand volleyball, and was active in the Life Teen program at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church. After high school, he attended Arizona State University and had a long career in retail with Walmart, working his way up to Assistant Store Manager at several locations in the greater Phoenix area.

Richard was known for his witty humor. He had a deep love of music and was thankful he and his wife, Karey, were able to see Billy Joel perform live at Madison Square Garden in NYC. Richard also loved Arizona sports teams, along with the sound and feel of the ocean. He took his sons to Huntington Beach, CA as often as possible.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.