Richard A. Tilelli, 77, of Holmdel and Brooklyn passed into eternal rest on April 15, 2021 following a brief illness.  Richard was born in Brooklyn, and predeceased by his parents, John and Mary (Falcone) Tilelli. He lived the majority of his life in Monmouth County and on Florida’s East Coast.

A proud Casey, Richard graduated in 1962 from Red Bank Catholic High School, and was a member of the esteemed championship 1959-1961 undefeated RBC football team, which to this day holds RBC, Jersey Shore, and state records.  He also attended Pennsylvania Military College and Monmouth College.

A true patriot, Richard answered the call to duty and honorably served in the U.S. Army at a time when others chose not to serve.  He felt this service was his most notable accomplishment and contribution in his lifetime.  He loved his country, and strongly believed in everyone’s Constitutional rights. 

Richard enjoyed a long, illustrious career in automobile sales management.  His gregarious, outgoing disposition suited him perfectly with his occupation, affording him the many benefits of his success.

There will never be another day when Richard’s family will not remember his beautiful spirit and his kind, pleasant manner. From his youth, Richard was described as a “sweet, lovable boy”, and until his death, his joyful, generous nature prevailed.  He remembered and celebrated everyone’s special occasions, and never left his family without telling them he loved them. Those who knew him know that it is a great understatement to say he was light-hearted, fun-loving, and could have a good time doing anything.  Never did anyone hear him say an unkind word about anyone.  Like his father before him, Richard  could hold a genuine, meaningful conversation with any man in any position in life.  For these reasons, he was blessed with many friends and was loved as he loved.

Richard is survived by a daughter Lauren and her husband Brian of Rockaway, New Jersey and a son, Richard and his wife Mary of Fort Lauderdale Florida, and 3 grandchildren, Madeleine, Matteo, and Bennett.   He leaves behind a brother, General John Tilelli of Alexandria, Virginia, and two sisters, Mary Redfield and Margaret Kiley, both of Holmdel, along with many adoring nieces and nephews..

Arrangements have been entrusted to Holmdel Funeral Home.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, April 27 at 10:30 AM at St. James Church, Broad Street, Red Bank, followed by a 3:00 PM interment at The William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery in Wrightstown, New Jersey.  In Richard’s memory, a donation may be made to the Armed Services YMCA, 14040 Central Loop, Suite B, Woodbridge, Virginia  22193.