Richard Garcia

Richard P. Garcia, 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Richard loved many things including golfing and his legendary two holes in one. He also enjoyed watching the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies and trips to the casino, but most of all he cherished family events.
He and his siblings were the vibrant heart of every celebration and were always ready to clear the floor for Salsa dancing!

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Inez Mitchell Punkka and Jose Quiles Garcia; and his beloved siblings Raymond Garcia, Joseph Patrick Garcia and Inez Margaret Plaza.

In 1956 Richard married Elsie (nee Elwell), and they created a family together. He is survived by his two children, Richard C. Garcia (Erin Kelly) and Audrey Nichols (James); his three granddaughters; Sara Volpe (Michael), Alexa Nazarian (Greg) and Carly Isabella Nichols; his three great grandsons, Santino, Carmen and Luciano Volpe. Richard will also be lovingly remembered by his second wife, Sandra, and her children Peter Melnychuck and the late Tracey Nuhn. He held a special place in the hearts of his many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Mary's Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare for their care over the past 14 months and also to the nurses at Virtua Hospital in Marlton for their outstanding compassion and comfort during his final days.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing and service on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM until 12:15 PM from St. Thomas More Church, 1439 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill, NJ, 08003. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 PM. Interment will be private at the convenience of his family.

To share a memory of Richard, please visit www.tjfluehr.com

Florists, all deliveries must be made to the church on Friday, by 10 AM.