Richard is predeceased by his parents Mercedes and Roy Martinez and his in-laws Adela and George Castells. He is survived by his wife Shirley, his daughters, Deborah Rosenberger (Joe), Sheri Norkas (Ryan), Lori Mason (Ronnie), his six grandchildren, Kaelynn, Joseph, John Alec, Kelli, Nathan and William, and his sister Mary Garcia (Robert).
Richard was born on November 28, 1944, in Tampa, Florida. He was a long-time member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church. He spent his 40-year career as an educator for Hillsborough County Public Schools, starting as a teacher. He went on to become a curriculum specialist, a principal, and culminated his career as a general director.
Richard’s family was his priority and everything he did centered around supporting them. Richard loved taking trips to Disney World and the beach with his children and grandchildren. He loved making their favorite foods but especially loved creating all his grandchildren’s birthday cakes. Richard enjoyed cruising and traveling with his wife. He was avid sports fan, especially a fan of the Buccaneers, the Rays, and the FSU Seminoles.
Richard had an unwavering faith in the Lord even as he battled multiple illnesses. He instilled the love of Jesus in his family. Richard’s legacy will live on in his wife, his children, grandchildren and future generations.
A visitation for Richard will be held Thursday, September 1st, 2022, from 6:00 pm to 8:00pm at Gonzalez Funeral Home, 7209 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33614.
A mass in his honor will be held on Friday, September 2nd, 2022, at 10:30 am at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 5225 N. Himes Ave., Tampa, FL 33614.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or St. Lawrence Catholic Church.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gonzalezfuneral.com for the Martinez family.
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