Richard Fernandez Sr.

Richard Fernandez Sr. of Phoenix, AZ (1944–2026) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the age of 81. An honorable veteran, Richard served in the Marine Corps Reserve from 1963 to 1967. Cherishing his experiences with the Corps, he always talked about his time of service with great pride. His dedication to public service continued in his professional life, working for the City of Phoenix for over 25 years, where he began as a plumber and advanced into the Housing program. He later contributed ten years to Chicanos por la Causa (CPLC) and concluded his career with five years at People Service Action in Arizona (PSA), forming lasting friendships and touching many lives along the way. Richard was an avid traveler, visiting Costa Rica, Alaska, Hawaii, and was always ready for a road trip—especially to Mission San Xavier Del Bac in Tucson, AZ. In retirement, he enjoyed weekly breakfasts with his close friends, affectionately known as “The Vato’s.” He enjoyed fishing and hunting in his younger years, had a passion for mariachi music, and was known for his sociable spirit, strong work ethic, infectious laughter, generosity, and unwavering love for his family. He is survived by his four children: Vickie Ellexson (and spouse Jim Ellexson, children Kayla, Nathan, Ethan, and Emma), Michelle Lindsay, Richard “Blu” Fernandez Jr. (and son Andrew), and Monica Morcillas (and spouse John Morcillas, daughter Marcelina). He is also survived by his sister Jenny Acuna, his twin brother Carlos Fernandez, his brother Florencio Fernandez, and his lifelong friend and former wife, Mary Fernandez. He was preceded in death by his parents Florencio and Maria Fernandez, sister Frances Fernandez, and nephew Andre Portillo.