Richard Vasquez Leal Jr.

June 17, 1950 – December 9, 2024

Richard Vasquez Leal Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, musician, and veteran, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, in Jonestown, Texas. Born on June 17, 1950, in Seguin, Texas, Richard was 74 years old.

Richard was the cherished son of Virginia Vasquez Leal and the late Richard G. Leal Sr. He was one of seven siblings, including two brothers, Arturo (who preceded him in death) and Joey, and four surviving sisters: Sandra, Susan, Shirley, and Cyndi.

A loving father with a warm sense of humor and a heart full of love, Richard was a guiding light to his children: Jonathan Eric Leal, Renee Michelle Leal, and Steven Ray Leal. He was also a beloved grandfather to Anysa, Shelbi, Jonathan, Erin, and Justin, as well as a great-grandfather to Arabella, Sibyl, Bella Maria, Athena, Skylar, and Jasmine.

As a celebrated Tejano musician, Richard was known for his incredible horn (Trumpet, Alto Sax, Mellophone) talent and contributions to iconic bands, including Alfonso Ramos, Ruben Ramos and the Mexican Revolution/Texas Revolution, Little Joe, Augustine Ramirez, Jimmy Edwards, Tierra Tejana, Street People, Tiempo, Super Sonics, Serapio Herrera, Texanna Band, he was also a stand in for bands like in Little Joe y La Familia, Sonny Ozuna and the Sunliners and others… He inspired younger and older musicians with his pipes. His music legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of his fans, bandmates, and loved ones.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Richard served his country honorably in the Signal Corps during the Vietnam War from 1970 to 1972. In which he again found music among comrades in the service. They even offered him a spot leaving the service but he wanted to come home. He never turned away the opportunity to play taps wherever and whenever needed.

Each of us holds unique experiences, stories, and memories of Richard that will forever bring laughter, warmth, and admiration. He had a gift for pranking, joking, and making others laugh, often at his own expense. Above all, he had a genuine desire to make everyone feel welcomed and free to be their true selves. Richard will always be remembered for his kind heart, his love of food and fun, and his thoughtfulness toward everyone he met. His life was a melody of love, laughter, and rhythm that will continue to echo in the hearts of those he touched. His music will live on forever, bringing joy, making people dance and feel good for generations to come.

Forever Missed, Goodbye for now dear friend

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life to honor Richard’s memory will take place on January 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM CST at Nuestra Señora de los Dolores Catholic Church, 1111 Montopolis Dr, Austin, TX 78741.

The family invites all who knew and loved Richard to share their memories, photos, and videos. May his legacy of joy and harmony inspire generations to come.

rleal617+12924@gmail.com 

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