Richard Villa

In Loving Memory of Richard Villa January 31, 1928 – August 14, 2026

Richard Villa, Sr. passed away peacefully at his home on August 14, 2026, at the age of 98 and a half surrounded by his loving and devoted family. He was predeceased by his parents, Maria and Nick Villa; his brother, Henry Villa (sister-in-law, Leona); his sister, Gloria Villa Cadena (brother-in-law, Carlos Cadena); and his brother, Chuck Villa (sister-in-law, Joan).

He is survived by his beloved wife of 74 years, Rose, and their five children: Rich (daughter-in-law, Barbara); Patse (son-in-law, Jahbe); Linda, Cindy; and Bobby (daughter-in-law, Teri). They have four cherished grandchildren: Richie, Ezra, Perry and Kara, and six precious great grandchildren: Madi, Jeremiah, Ada, Sterling, Lyra and Quinnie. All will miss their Grandpa Villa greatly and will carry fond memories of his kind and generous nature, enduring good humor, and the “sparkle in his eyes”.

Richard was born in San Antonio, Texas on January 31, 1928. As a young man, he answered the call of duty during World War II where he honorably served in the US Navy on the destroyer USS Bordelon in the South Pacific theater. Following his military service, Richard returned to San Antonio and attended St. Mary’s University, Texas Christian University & Trinity University. Shortly thereafter, he met and married his lovely wife, Rose. Five years later they relocated to Sacramento, California where they joyfully raised their five children.

Richard (aka Dick or Rich) enjoyed a long and highly successful career in sales and real estate. This included 15 distinguished years with GTE Yellow Pages (now Verizon). His territory spanned from California to Nevada, where he earned numerous top sales awards and became a respected mentor to countless colleagues & friends.

After Richard retired, he and Rose moved to San Diego to be closer to their first-born grandchild Richie and shared many happy moments with all of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Richard and Rose especially enjoyed San Diego’s beautiful coastline, scenery and weather. Over the years, they poured much time and love into creating a peaceful sanctuary garden in their large yard. They also enjoyed their many road trips between Northern & Southern California, Albuquerque and San Antonio to visit family because, to Richard, family meant everything.

Richard’s life was defined by his humility, compassion and dedication to helping his family and many others. He established friendships easily and was much loved and respected. His legacy of humor, service, love, faith and mentorship will continue to live on through the countless people (both young and old alike) to whose lives he touched. He felt very blessed to have lived such a long, happy and fulfilling life.

With Faith, Hope, Love & Peace, Dick did it God’s way!

A Mass will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at “Our Mother of Confidence” Church (3131 Governor Drive, San Diego, CA 92122) followed by a memorial service with Military Honors at Miramar Natl. Cemetery (5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122) at 1:15 p.m. Guests should arrive at Miramar Natl. Cemetery by 12:45 p.m. and park behind the Administration building in Lane #2. Following the memorial service at the National Cemetery, we will return to “Our Mother of Confidence” Church where a reception will be held from 2-4 p.m. to share happy memories of Richard’s life.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to: Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the Wounded Warrior Project, or the charity of your choice.