Ricardo "Richard" Diaz

Weslaco- Mr. Ricardo "Richard" Diaz, a devoted over-the-road truck driver for over fifty-five years, ended his long and fulfilling journey on May 15, 2024, at DHR in Edinburg. Richard was 70 years old. He was born on June 2, 1953, in Weslaco, Texas, to Jose and Guadalupe "Estrada" Diaz.

Richard grew up in Weslaco and met his soulmate as a young child. He and Rosie were teenage sweethearts. They eloped on November 29, 1971, and spent the rest of their lives together. 

Richard's career as an over-the-road truck driver was not just a job but a calling. Over his fifty-five-year career, he found solace on the open road, supporting his beloved family while admiring God's magnificent creation. His dedication was unparalleled, meticulously documenting his countless hours behind the wheel in several logbooks, surpassing what many would consider the norm. Known to his peers and family as "The Legend" and recognized by his CB handle "Spiderman," Richard was not just a driver but an icon in the eyes of those close to him, leaving a lasting impact on his profession and community. Throughout his career, Richard delivered produce to forty-eight states in the US and Canada. 

Richard's dedication extended beyond the highways and interstates that became his second home. He found joy in spending time with his family and his wife, Rosie Diaz, standing by his side through every mile traveled and every memory made. Oftentimes, Richard would take Rosie on the road with him. When at home in Weslaco, Richard cherished every moment with Rosie, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating a loving and nurturing environment. 

Besides conquering less traveled roads, Richard enjoyed simple pleasures like tending to his yard and indulging in classic Western films. He also indulged in sweet bread and barbacoa. 

Richard was generous and always willing to lend a helping hand. In 2011, when the horrific tornadoes hit Joplin, Missouri, Richard hit the road and volunteered in disaster relief for as long as they needed him. This is just one example, but the local news called Richard "The Joplin Hero." 

Richard's unwavering commitment to work, community, and family exemplified the essence of a dedicated patriarch whose legacy will live on through all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Guadalupe Diaz; son-in-law, Richard Yzaguirre; brothers, Juan Diaz Jr., Elojio Diaz, Pedro "Pete" Sr. and Janelle Diaz Sr., Jose Diaz; and sister, Frances Nuñez. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Rosalinda "Rosie" Diaz; children, Rachel Diaz, Rebecca Ansiso (Albert), Ricardo Diaz Jr., Roxanne Diaz, Ronica Ysaguirre (Richard+), Rosanna Diaz; six additional children, siblings Jose L. Diaz (Isabel), Lupita Cano (Alfredo), Stella Gomez (Jesse), Teressa Diaz, and Patsy Diaz; sisters-in-law Guadalupe Diaz (Juan+), Nora Diaz (Eulojio+), and Anita Diaz (Jose+); brother-in-law Max Nunez (Frances+); eighteen grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be held at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco on Friday, May 17, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life at 7:00 PM. Additional visitation will occur on May 18 from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM at McCaleb Funeral Home before proceeding to Sacred Park Cemetery in Mercedes for burial at noon.

“Rest easy, driver, we got it from here.”