Obituary

Richard Edsel Cofield, Jr., age 57 of Avondale, AZ died March 29, 2019 in Phoenix, AZ. He was born December 10, 1961 in Dayton, OH to Dorthell Talton and Richard Edsel Cofield, Sr., the only son in a family of four children. As a child he was always full of life and spirit, committed to his school work, and would always give more than was required. He was on the track and field team while at John Muir High School in Pasadena, CA running the 400 and 800 meter dash. This outstanding ability earned him a track scholarship to UC Irvine. After receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Richard went into banking where he worked in various executive positions including human resources and risk management. While working at Security Pacific National he met the love of his life, his wife Doreen. They were married for 30 years, were best friends and lived in a way that others aspired to follow, as they appreciated the beauty of each moment, never taking it or each other for granted.

Compassionate and full of life, Richard went out of his way to help others. Whether you were a worker in a grocery store, or someone on the street, he took the time to notice and celebrate the uniqueness of those around him. He was genuinely interested in people and had a wealth of friends. He cared for their hearts, always remembering the burdens and aspirations that they shared with him.   He looked for ways to uplift others from their trials and would find just the right words to comfort and bring peace to them in their time of need.

Richard gave many hours to his community as a coach. He influenced hundreds of youth of various ages as he coached track & field, football, basketball and Little League.   They would often recognize him in the community and stop him to express their gratitude for the many ways he helped them grow. In his free time, Richard liked to read, collect books, rocks, antiques, Afro-American and Native American artifacts, and visit estate sales.

Richard was a wonderful family man. His sons were his life and he was their rock. He set high standards for his sons and supported them in achieving those standards. As they were growing into strong young men he helped them walk them through the joys and challenges of life. Their lives and numerous achievements are a testament to his love and devotion.

Richard is survived by his wife, Doreen Cofield; sons, Rickey (Daughter in law Zari), Christopher, and David Cofield; and sister, Anita Cofield and many loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorthell and Richard Cofield Sr.; and sisters, Juanita and Saundria Cofield.

Richard’s favorite scripture:

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

A visitation will be held at 12:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 pm, Friday, April 5, 2019 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338.