Malik Isaiah Richards

Malik Isaiah Richards of Buena Vista, New Mexico passed away on February 20, 2026. He was born on October 10, 1995 in San Diego, California to Tyrone and Bea Richards.
Malik was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. He is survived by his loving parents Tyrone and Bea Richards, his brothers DeMarco Richards and Jolonie Richards; grandmother Cleatrice Richards, paternal aunt Jaqueline Curl Brewer (Tony), paternal uncles Garfield Richards (Sandra), Sylvester Richards and Leevester Richards (Yasmine). Maternal aunts and uncles: Isabel Lopez, Nieves Gallegos (Vernice), Linda Sanderson (Chuck), Sam Maestas Jr. (Armand) and Jonathon Maestas (Lillian). He also leaves behind numerous cousins from the Richards and Gallegos families who love him deeply.
He is preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Sylvester Richards, maternal grandparents Sam and Flora Maestas, and uncles Johnny Richards, Carl Richards and Andres Gallegos.
From a young age Malik demonstrated remarkable depth, poise and heart. At just 10 years old, he spoke at his grandmother's service with clarity and grace, showing the natural strength and integrity that would define his life.
Malik was known for his unwavering principles, gentle spirit, and quiet acts of kindness. A practicing Hebrew Israelite, he held firm to values of patience, humility, respect and compassion. He lived these beliefs sincerely-quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger and always striving to treat others with dignity. Malik was a man of his word, steady in character, thoughtful in action and guided by faith.
He showed his love through service, always going above and beyond without seeking recognition. He honored his parents with deep respect, never raising his voice and always valuing peace. Malik avoided negativity and refused to engage in harmful talk or behavior. During the COVID pandemic, he devoted time to teaching his younger cousins, ensuring they stayed on track in their education. To them, he remained a source of comfort and inspiration.
Malik had a rare gift; he met people exactly where they were, offering calm, understanding and genuine connection. His presence brought peace; his kindness brought comfort; his integrity-built trust.
Malik was an IT expert with a love for problem-solving and technology. He enjoyed online gaming, music creation and exploring all genres of sound. His creativity extended to the kitchen, his family has fond memories of the amazing talent he had in the kitchen where he was creative and adventurous, always experimenting with new recipes. Some of the family's favorite recipes included his perfectly cooked steaks, sous vide dishes, chicken shawarma, meatloaf, orange chicken, green chili mac and cheese, and perfectly smoked meats. He mastered the art of mead making and recently developed a passion for coffee, embracing another skill with enthusiasm and dedication.
Malik leaves behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, intelligence, creativity, and steadfast love. He touched countless lives with his sincerity and gentle strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.
Services will be held March 5, 2026 at 10:00 am at the chapel in Rogers Mortuary with burial services to follow at the Buena Vista Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Jonathon Maestas Jr. Solomon Lopez, Richard Maestas, Deleno Maestas, Issac Garcia, Joshua Martinez, Garfield Richards and Paul Pino. Services are under the direction of Rogers Mortuary.
Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary, 600 Reynolds Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701. 505-425-3511.
Please visit our online website www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign the online register book.
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