Obituaries

Richard William Schools

5/23/1957 - 9/27/2026

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Obituary For Richard William Schools

Richard William Schools, 69, of Valrico, Florida, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Richard was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend. He was the beloved husband of Gisela Schools; devoted father of Regina Tillman and her husband, Justin Tillman, Richard M. “Ricky” Schools and his wife, Jamie Schools, and Cory Schools and his wife, Jessica Schools; loving son of Richard E. Schools and Loretta Schools; brother of Stephen Schools, Maria Coleman, Timothy Schools, and James Schools; and proud grandfather of Jake, Olivia, Owen, Ethan, Easton, Hailey, Callum, and Austin.

Richard was a deeply loving and heartfelt man whose family was at the center of his life. He was rarely still and was happiest when spending time with his family and grandchildren, making apple tarts, playing and making music, or working on a project with those he loved. Many of his children’s most cherished childhood memories were made either at the baseball field or working beside him around their home.

He had a remarkable mind and viewed life from a perspective that was uniquely his own. Richard constantly searched for deeper meaning in life, relationships, music, and the world around him. He had an extraordinary passion for music and true lyricism, writing songs that were thoughtful, complex, poetic, and filled with emotion.

Richard also loved chess, as well as the mountains and the outdoors, where he found peace, freedom, and inspiration.

He will be remembered for his creativity, wisdom, tireless spirit, and, above all, the tremendous love he gave to his family and friends. Richard will be missed beyond words, loved beyond measure, and remembered always.

A Celebration of Life honoring Richard will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate his remarkable life.

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Tributes

  • Blessings Bouquet

    Eric VanGalder Family sent Blessings Bouquet for Richard William Schools - 10/16/2026

    My deepest condolences for the loss of your dad. In this time of sorrow, may you feel the presence of God and the comfort of your faith. Praying for your peace and comfort. Love The VanGalder Family

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Condolences

  • 10/08/2026

    Debbie Bradford

    I remember after a baseball game one time Rick brought over a bunch of Oreos for the kids to have after the game. I'll never forget to look on their faces as they all bit into their Oreo cookies feverishly, and discovered the yummy inside filling had been replaced with toothpaste. It was brilliant and I will never forget that RIP Rick. Debbie Bradford

  • 10/08/2026

    Lynn Kennedy

    Rick was one of the first neighbors Dave and I met when we moved into the neighborhood and he was very welcoming, helpful, fun, and just a pleasure to be around. The twinkle in his eyes was just pure joy, and his boundless energy and zest for life was an inspiration. It's been a privilege to be his friend and neighbor for over 30 years, and he will most certainly be missed by everyone whose life he touched. My deepest condolences to Gigi, their children and grandchildren, and his large extended family. My heart breaks for you all 💔

  • 10/07/2026

    Anna Werner

    My heart hurts for everyone who loved Rick. I will always be so thankful for the love he gave my daughter and for the wonderful Papa he was to my grandchildren. ❤️ There is something so special about knowing your grandchildren are loved so deeply, and Rick certainly loved them. He will be missed more than words can say. I pray God holds his family close and gives them strength and comfort in the days ahead. Rest peacefully, Rick. Your grandchildren will always know how much their Papa loved them. ❤️🙏

  • 10/07/2026

    Edward Perzov

    I had the honor of being teammates with both Ricky and Cory back in our high school days. We also played at north Brandon little league where at times I would come up to the field and see Ricky and Cory with there dad practicing and MR Schools would always ask me if I wanted to join in on there practices. He was a great man and will be deeply missed.