Richard Roberts (Passed away 26 Feb 2025)

Richard was born on 24 May 1989 in Devizes Hospital. First son of Tracy and younger brother to Toni and Sarah. He was taken care of by Mum, with a little help (or hindrance) from his sisters until he met the man who became his Dad in 1995, Neil.

In the early years Richard underwent a series of blood tests and scans to help the doctors and us understand why he wasn't developing the way a typical child would. A tiny little thing back then just skin and bone we used to worry about how scrawny he was and that with a bad illness his low weight could be his undoing. Despite our best efforts, feeding Rich was never easy. Ultimately, after many years the decision was made to fit a gastronomy peg. Richard gained weight, and we gained some peace of mind that if ever he became poorly again, his weight wouldn't be a factor in his recovery.

Throughout his 35 years Richard has faced a number of battles but despite the odd grumble, he faced every challenge with strength and resilience and a cheeky smile and he always bounced back. He always knocked down whatever obstacle was in his way and continued to be our Ricardo Roberto.

Anyone who knew Richard will remember him for his brilliant sense of humour and wicked little laugh. Although he was not able to communicate like the rest of us, he had his ways of letting you know he was listening. He used to crack up laughing upon hearing Toni and Sarah have their usual sisterly bickering. He loved to hear them argue and would often be found shaking from laughter after listening intently to the drama.

He also loved hearing the voices of the children in his life. We noticed this most when Alex was little, and she used to say his name wrong and call him DudDud, but his face used to light up when he heard her giggle. But more recently he’s been fascinated by the boys - Drey, Seth, and Gio. You could see him actively listening to them play, and he would smile, laugh and shout along with them. The loud energetic fun and games, taking place all around him, made him very happy.

Richard has his quirks, though. He hated anyone touching his face, or hair. But used to laugh when Toni would tickle his nose with her pony tail. Sometimes she'd sing (very badly) to him and he’d be still and listening carefully, with a little smile, but his favourite was stroking his hand. His hands were soft like satin and you could just tell it felt good and that it was a feeling that he loved.

Richard had achieved so many things in his life that we never thought possible, not least reaching 35 years of age. He's swam in the sea, he'd been on a plane, he'd been fishing, he'd been a canal boat captain, he became uncle to 3 terrors. He lived as full a life as anyone with his conditions could ever wish for. And that is 100% down to the dedication and love of his Mum and Dad. Never have 2 people been more dedicated to providing comfort, care and joy to one person. No sacrifice was too much and we are comforted to know that Richard could feel the love for him every day.

Richard touched so many people in his life, he had such a huge impact on everyone who loves him that a world without him is unimaginable.

Richard has taught his nephews compassion and empathy, he's taught them about acceptance, about inclusivity and they, like all of us, are better people for having Richard in their lives. We will never not be proud of the lessons that we have all learned from him.

For now we proudly and fondly remember the years we had with such a beautiful boy.

All are welcome to celebrate Richard's life with us at Semington crematorium on 21 March at 12pm, followed by the Wyvern Club. Dress code: Smart Casual

Donations can be made in Richards memory to The Opportunity Centre.