Richard Contreras

El Paso, Texas mourns the loss of Richard Contreras, who passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024, surrounded by family. Richard's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Richard was a unique combo of positivity and witty sarcasm all rolled into one. He navigated life with wisdom, undeniable confidence, and made every room he entered a happier place. A long-time attorney, Richard was a paragon of justice, embodied civility, and had a jolly charisma that was unmatched. He was 67 years old.

In celebration of his contributions to the legal profession and the community at large, Richard will be remembered in a celebration of his life at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at Martin Funeral Home East.

Born on August 10, 1956, and raised by David and Raquel Contreras in the vibrant city of El Paso, Richard's penchant for achievement and his strong work ethic began early in life. He was a standout student and All-American football player at Riverside High School. In 1984, he was inducted into the Riverside High Athletic Hall of Fame. Richard was later recognized as a Riverside High School “Honored Ex” in 1995. Thereafter, Richard attended the University of Texas at El Paso, where he continued to excel academically while also actively engaging in community service initiatives.

Richard's desire to instill positive change in the lives of others led him to pursue a legal education at the prestigious University of Texas at Austin School of Law. There, he distinguished himself as a diligent student, mastering the intricacies of the law while also developing a profound understanding of its ethical and moral dimensions. After receiving his law degree, Richard returned to his beloved hometown of El Paso, where he embarked on an over 40-year career running his own firm including over 30-years of dedicated support of commitment and excellence from Sandra Estorga. Richard was also loved and revered by colleagues and judges and had a way of even making his competition feel at ease in tense situations. To say that Richard directly impacted the lives of many is an understatement.

Beyond his professional achievements, Richard was a devoted family man and a pillar in the El Paso community. He was a steadfast source of love and support to his wife of 17 years, Maria Del Carmen Contreras. Additionally, Richard was a proud father and role model to his children with former wife Martha Contreras Orona, son Richard Austin Contreras, son Christopher Ryan Contreras and wife Teresa Contreras, son David Abel Contreras and wife Lindsay McNeil Contreras, stepdaughters Valerie Yvelle Herrera and Jacqueline Alexandra Abogado, daughter of Maria Del Carmen Contreras, and Jaqueline’s husband Jon Dominguez. Richard is also survived by his brother Dave Contreras, and grandchildren Milarose Contreras, Valentino Josue Contreras and Moises David Andres Dominguez. He was preceded in death by his father David Contreras, his mother Raquel Contreras and his sister Dr. Elizabeth Contreras.

Richard's warm personality and quick wit endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and his absence will be felt by many. Richard loved music, the UT Longhorns, the Dallas Cowboys, and his quirky clown collection. He was often spotted rooting on his sons at football games or enjoying down time among family at home over a cup of coffee.

While Richard may no longer walk among us, his legacy of compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice will continue to inspire his family and all others who follow in his footsteps. Rest in peace, dear Richard. Your memory will forever be cherished, and your impact on our lives will endure for generations to come.