Richard Eugene Cervi

Richard Eugene Cervi, 76, left this world on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, stepping peacefully into the arms of our Lord and Savior. Born on June 26, 1948, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Mabel and Philip Cervi, Rich lived a life defined by love, service, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
To know Rich was to know kindness, strength, and a heart that always put others first. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend-a man whose love was a steady, guiding light in the lives of those fortunate enough to share in it. His greatest joy was his family, especially his beloved wife of 37 years, Deborah M. Cervi. Their love was built on trust, laughter, and an unbreakable bond that carried them through every joy and hardship. She was the love of his life, and together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.
Rich's heart was as big as his dedication to service. Answering the call to defend his country at a young age, he completed two tours of duty in Vietnam, serving with honor in the United States Air Force, where he earned the rank of Sergeant. He carried that same sense of duty into everything he did-whether at work, in his community, or in the way he cared for his loved ones.
He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Mabel and Philip Cervi, and his beloved son, Richard Eugene Cervi II, whose loss he carried with quiet strength. Now, father and son are reunited in eternal peace.
Left to carry on his love and legacy are his devoted wife, Deborah M. Cervi; his sons and their spouses, James & Christina Cervi, Chad & Tara Cervi, Richard Eugene Cervi III, and Jason Rogers; his grandchildren; his brothers, Phillip Cervi and Robert & Jeanne Cervi; and a family of nieces, nephews, and friends who became family.
For 45 years, Rich poured his heart into his work at Deer Park Shell Refinery, where he was not just an employee, but a mentor, a friend, and a role model. He was also a proud member of the Emergency Response Team and the Deer Park Volunteer Fire Department, always ready to serve and protect those in need. His work ethic was unmatched, his attention to detail meticulous, and his friendships lifelong.
Rich had a way of making people feel safe, valued, and loved. Whether through a reassuring hug, a firm handshake, or a quiet moment of wisdom, he left an imprint on the hearts of those around him. His presence filled a room with warmth, and his absence leaves a space that can never be filled.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the wonderful nurses from Maxim-Samantha, Adrienne, Antonio, Nnenna, and Courtney-as well as the VA Hospital ALS Team for their compassionate care and kindness.
A special thank you to Alma, Adam, Dorothy, Evelyn, and Julianna, who became not just caregivers, but family, offering Rich their unwavering love and support in his final journey.
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Deer Park Funeral Directors, located at 336 E. San Augustine Street, Deer Park, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the ALS Foundation in Rich's honor, so that others may receive the same love and support that surrounded him in his final days.
Though he is no longer here, Rich's love remains woven into the hearts of those he leaves behind. His laughter, his wisdom, his unwavering devotion-these are the gifts he gave us, and they will live on forever.
Rest easy, Rich. Your work here is done, and your love will never fade.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Richard Eugene Cervi, please visit our floral store.