Richard Sherwood

SHERWOOD, Richard James passed into the arms of the Lord on March 21, 2026. As a devout servant of God accompanied with a deep love for life, “Papa Bear” was known for his perpetual smile, even through the darkest of times. Born on January 31, 1944, to parents, Francis Walter (predeceased) and Jennie Gertrude Papesh (predeceased) Richard was raised in Tucson, alongside his older brother Gary Edward (predeceased). On December 30, 1967, Richard married his childhood sweetheart and next-door-neighbor, Lois Elaine Hansen, with whom he is preceded in death. Richard and his “Precious Sweet” as he called Lois, were devoted parents to daughter, Kristin (Yoerns); sons, Brent Sherwood and Brandon Sherwood (Kristen) and proud grandparents to: Aubrilyn, Kaydance, Makenzie and Gracie Sherwood, Lee Yoerns. Richard served his community for over 30 years as an elementary Math and Science Teacher. He also was a faithful member to his Church, Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, for over 50 years as a parishioner, a trainer for youth lectors, and eventually a eucharistic minister. He had a genuine love for God, family, University of Arizona Athletics, Elvis Presley, and his weekly escape to the golf course with his dear friend Ray Curtis. Ultimately, dementia took Richard’s speech, but it didn’t stop him from continuing to make others laugh and smile. He brought joy to the lives of many, and though his work here on Earth is fulfilled, his selflessness, love, boisterous laugh, moustache and smile will forever resonate in our hearts. “Rest in peace, Papa Bear, and fly on; you are free to smile again!” The family would like to thank Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, for opening their doors to Richard and family since 1974. The family would also like to extend their sincere gratitude to Anthony Diaz and his staff at Rosa’s Chante, for their compassionate support, love, and care for Richard as his life became complete. Services for Richard are as follows: Visitation at BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL (6910 E. Broadway Blvd), Monday, April 6, 2026 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm with a Rosary recited at 6:00 pm. Funeral service will be held at Our Mother of Sorrows Church (1800 S. Kolb Rd.), Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 11:00 am Followed by graveside services at All Faith's Memorial Park. A memorial luncheon at Our Mother of Sorrows Parish will follow the graveside services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Richard’s name to Our Mother of Sorrows Parish; (520) 747-1321, or Rosa’s Chante Assisted Living; Anthony Diaz (520) 751-1998.