Richard, as he was known, was born on January 3, 1945, in Ardmore, Oklahoma to Fred and Billy Perez. Richard graduated from Mary Carroll High School in Corpus Christi, Texas, where he met his future wife, Susie. After graduating high school, he joined United States Marine Corp where he served as a Sergeant during the Vietnam War.
In May 1969 he married his high school sweetheart, Susie Rodela. Their marriage was filled with love, lasting 52 years until she preceded him in death in 2021. Richard graduated from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, where he received his degree in accounting.
Richard and Susie raised their family in Corpus Christi and were active members in the community. Richard became a successful international businessman in the scrap metals industry dismantling ships and oil platforms throughout various ports on the Texas coast. Despite his work travel schedule, Richard never missed his children’s school or sporting events and was always a visible supporter. This same dedication held true for his grandchildren. In his spare time, Richard was an avid fisherman, loved to travel, listen to live music, eat amazing food and enjoy a nice glass of Pinot noir.
Richard was also a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend who was always willing to listen, help those in need, or offer friendly life advice. His infectious smile, big personality, humor, and big ideas, as well as his stories, will greatly be missed.
Richard is survived by his two children and their spouses, Monica Dunwoody, and son in law Grant Dunwoody, and Michael Perez and daughter-in-law Allison Langley Perez; and his six grandchildren, Travis Dunwoody, Emma Dunwoody, and Lauren Dunwoody, and Luke Perez, Peyton Perez and Langley Perez.
Richard is also survived by his two beloved sisters, Donna Perez De La Fuente and Linda “Cookie” Perez Farias and brother-in-law Roy Farias.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Billy Perez, brother-in-law Eloy De La Fuente and his beloved wife, Susie Rodela Perez.
We will celebrate Richard on May 12, 2025, at the Chapel of American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77038. The celebration will start with a gathering at 11:00am followed by his Celebration of Life. The service will commence at 1:00 p.m. after which Richard will be escorted next door to the Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77038, where he will be laid to rest with military honors. A reception afterwards will be held at 1:30pm, back at the American Heritage Funeral Home.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for their love and support during Richard’s illness. The family has asked those who would like to make a donation in honor of Richard would - in lieu of flowers - contribute to The Wounded Warrior Project at woundedwarriorproject.org
