Richard Fuentes Castillo Sr.

Richard Fuentes Castillo Sr. 91 of Odessa, passed away Wednesday April 15, 2026, at his Residence. 

Richard was born in Balmorhea, Texas, to Julian Castillo and Julia Fuentes. He later made Odessa his lifelong home, building a life rooted in family, hard work, and the familiar comfort of the southside’s local cantinas.

He spent 40 dedicated years working as a Plant Operator at General Tire, where he was known affectionately as “Richie.” His humor, loyalty, and easygoing nature earned him lifelong friendships and the respect of everyone who worked alongside him.

On November 9, 1959, Richard married the love of his life, Gloria, and together they shared many devoted years. After her passing in December 2006, Richard continued to carry himself with the same energy, humor, and youthful spirit that defined him throughout his life.

He found joy in the simple routines of his days such as mornings at McDonald’s, afternoons at the park, and selling second‑hand items to anyone he could find. Richard had a gift for making a dollar and an even greater gift for not spending one. From PeeWee, to Brownie, to Harley and finally Logan, he took pride in caring for each family dog and the companionship they brought into his life and home. He loved celebrating his great grandchildren’s birthday parties and being surrounded around his family during holidays, moments that filled him with pride and joy. He spent countless hours playing with his granddaughters Julia, Sophia, Amelia, and Cecilia, who brought him endless happiness and kept his heart young. His one wish was to live long enough for his granddaughters to remember him — and that wish came true.

Richard is preceded in death by:

• His parents Julian & Julia Castillo
• His wife Gloria Castillo
• His daughter Nancy Gallardo
• His great‑granddaughter Aria Belle Castillo

Richard is survived by a large and loving family, including:

• Children: Ricardo Castillo (Nancy), Jose Castillo, Monica Hinojos (Fabian)
• Grandchildren: Ricky Castillo, Ronnie Castillo, Valerie Kral, Robert Gallardo, Julia Rose, Sophia Hinojos, Amelia Hinojos and Cecilia Hinojos
• Great‑Grandchildren: Kalyssa, Danielle, Ricardo IV, Aaleyna, Aivyn, Ari’elle, Acyn, Jireh, and Amaris, Brandon

His legacy continues through each of them — in their stories, their laughter, and the strength of the family he helped build.

Pallbearers: Ricky Castillo, Ronnie Castillo, Ricky Castillo IV, Robert Gallardo, Brandon Collier, Ismael Levario

Visitation will be held Tuesday April 21, 2026 from 1pm to 9PM with a Rosary being recited at 7Pm in The Outside Chapel of Martinez Funeral Home The Dixie Location

Mass will be Celebrated at 10AM Wednesday April 22, 2026 at St. Joseph`s Catholic Church with Fr. Mike Elsner officiating.

Interment will follow The Celebrated Mass at Ector County Cemetery The Rosehill Section

Services Entrusted to Martinez Funeral Home The Dixie Location.