July 1969 - August 8, 2015 Richard A. Devylder died on Saturday, August 8th, in Long Beach CA. Born July 1969, he had no arms nor legs yet he grew to be a giant in the Disability Rights Movement. His career took him from Independent Living Centers, to the Department of Rehabilitation to the Governor's Office, to the U.S. Department of Transportation in D.C., and back to the Governor's Office. He was a champion for access and independence for people with disabilities. He is survived by his mother Joan Devylder and his sisters Cheryl Devylder, and Sharon Taylor, and 9 nieces, 5 great nieces and 4 great nephews. Services honoring his life will be held on Friday, August 14th, at Chapels of Memories, 12626 Woods Avenue in Norwalk 10am - 12pm. A graveside burial will follow the service at Little Lakes Cemetery.
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I loved this man. Funny, fierce, and funny.
Diane Reiners
Coworker
May 19, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear of Richard’s passing. I didn’t know him terribly well, but the few times we met, he made me want to be not just a better person, but a better Christian as well!!
Richard also made me realize just HOW thankful I should be for the things I DO have, & not dwell on the things I don’t or never will have.
Eugene Murdoch
Acquaintance
November 30, 2020
Richard was both courageous and inspiring. May your hearts be comforted knowing that he is in God's memory.
August 18, 2015
I had the honor of serving as Co Student Mgr of Basketball at WCHS with Richard, and I was impressed how he never let his disability disable his work on the game stats. Today he is "Walking" with Jesus in Heaven.
Jeff Martin
August 17, 2015
A great man, advocate and friend! Richard will be missed by many and his passing is a great loss to the community as a whole. He was one strong human! Rest well my friend.
Kim Hogan
August 17, 2015
I met Richard when I worked at the Dayle McIntosh Center as there Systems Change Advocate. He inspired me to try and change the lives for persons with disabilities for the better using any means possible. I currently work for Caltrans as an Associate Transportation Planner because of his inspiration. He was a good friend and will be sorely missed.
Rick Franz
August 17, 2015
Sorry to hear that we lost a great leader. Gone too soon.
Sharon N Grace
August 16, 2015
I grew up going to church with Richard starting in 6th grade. We had a great time rooting for the Lakers together. He was a great friend. He even came out to my wedding in Minnesota in 2000. Peace be to his memory!
Lester Sheneberger
August 14, 2015
Richard's passing is such a loss! I had the pleasure of working with him while he was in DC. What an incredible man. He will be missed by so many. But he certainly made a difference while he was with us. May God Bless Richard and his family. Farewell, my friend.
Maggie
August 14, 2015
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