Richard Edsel Cofield, Jr.
Passed: March 29, 2019
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Richard Edsel Cofield, Jr.
Passed: March 29, 2019
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.
45 responses to Richard Edsel Cofield, Jr.
Sandra Sievers says:
April 8, 2019
To the Cofield family, I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Richard at Security Pacific/Bank of America and adored him. His quick smile always brightened any room he walked into. His passing is a loss to everyone who knew him. Gone way to soon. RIP Richard.
Vincent Halfacre says:
April 8, 2019
I sat next to Richard in math class at Residence Park Elementary School in Dayton Ohio. He would actually help me read what was on the board from the back of the room to compensate for my nearsightedness. A good child who grew into a good man, husband, father, metor and friend; a legacy that will live on forever. RIP Richard.
Rita says:
April 10, 2019
I am full of sorrow. In sympathy and honor of the light the Richard was and is for his family and anyone that has had the blessing of meeting him or knowing him, I am sharing his words from an MUFG email he sent me in April 2018: “It is amazing how creator is there to help us in the design of our life, and how he uses us to be there for each other. That is the beauty of life. You have a great purpose designed in your life – simple, but powerful, stay focused on him and continue to watch it blossom. Like we said, we will stay in touch – so it isn’t good-bye.”
Veronica Cisneros says:
April 12, 2019
Dear Cofield family: Keeping you in my thoughts as I just learned of Richard’s passing. We briefly worked together on a project at USSAA, but he made a strong impression during those few working sessions. Did not know anything personal about Richard, but after reading through the comments on this page, my first impression of a very genuine, caring, thoughtful man appeared to be right on the money! I should have guessed that this amazing person also was a fan of THE Ohio State University (alumni and die hard Buckeye!). So sorry to hear of his passing. I am thankful to have crossed paths with him.
Carol Lourenco says:
December 30, 2021
Doreen,
I worked at Security National Bank in downtown Los Angeles with you and Richard.
I am so sorry to learn of Richard’s passing! My most deepest condolences to you and your family. I was a teller at that time, and I remember when you two got married and moved away. I always thought you two were a great couple when you started dating. I’m so sorry. Richard is in God’s Glory forever and you will one day be together again, that’s what I believe.