Richard J. Scorziello, Jr. (Richie), 57, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away on March 4, 2023.
Our hearts ache for the passing of Richard J. Scorziello Jr, a loving father, consummate fisherman and football and hockey aficionado.
Richard John Scorziello, Jr., was born on June 4, 1965, the first child born to Richard J Scorziello Sr. and Bertha Welch. He was one of five children in the Scorziello household, located in a family-oriented cul-de-sac in Wilmington, DE. His start in life was nearly stunted when he was diagnosed early on with juvenile arthritis. He spent some months in the hospital until prayer, medical intervention and sheer determination allowed him to recover and he never looked back.
As a child, Richie had a natural affinity for sports. Once his parents received the "all clear" from the pediatrician, Richie joined a touch football team and "that was all she wrote“.
He attended Salesianum High School, and soon became a standout on the Sallies football team. Richie had a natural talent when it came to football and excelled in his position as an Outside Linebacker. His name frequently appeared in the local newspaper: "Scorziello, a 5-8, 170-pound sparkplug“ was, I’m sure, a most suitable description of Richie at the time. He was an unstoppable force, thanks to his agility, tactical knowledge, and infinite love for the game. A team player who always gave credit where credit was due, Richie had a genuine love and respect for his teammates that has endured through the years. Richie often spoke of those glory days with such palpable pride and adoration. His retellings had the ability to transport the listener back in time, as if you were a spectator in the noisy, fan-filled stands of a Salesianum game, circa 1980-1983. His achievements on the field were recognized when Richie was selected as a 1st Team All-State player and later, he was selected to play in a Blue-Gold All Star Football game at the University of Delaware Stadium. Richie was indeed a distinguished player among his peers.
It should come as no surprise then that his natural athletic prowess didn’t end with just football. Richie also played goalie on the Longwood/Martones street hockey teams, where he played with his brothers Roger and Ronnie.
He was an avid fisherman, familiar with saltwater, freshwater and shoreline fishing. Ask him about the best time, bait and pole to use and Richie had all the answers.
Richie was proud of his accomplishments, but he was most proud of his beautiful children, Matthew and Jennifer. He cherished his childhood friendships as well as his immutable bond he had with his sister Mary.
Anyone in his orbit can attest to Richie’s charisma, his wit and humor and his zest for life. He had a magnetism about him that drew everyone in and when he spoke to you, it was as if you were the only person in the room. He was a gifted, loving, exceptional human being and everyone who met him, loved him.
We take comfort in that Richie was surrounded by his family in his last hours. His daughter Jennifer provided exceptional, loving care and we know in our heart of hearts that Richie knew how incredibly loved he was.
He is survived by his Son, Matthew Scorziello of Lakeland, FL; Daughter Jennifer Scorziello of Los Angeles, CA; his former spouse Kimberly Snow of Lakeland, FL; his Mother, Bertha Welch of Lewes, DE; Brother Roger Scorziello and his wife Jennifer of Wilmington, DE; Sister Mary Scorziello of Bradenton, FL; Sister Michelle Scorziello of Lewes, DE; and Nieces Brittney Kessler and Julia Stabley of Lewes, DE and Nephews Thomas Kessler and Kyle Kessler, David, Brian, Danielle Piccolomin and Christopher James Scorziello of Wilmington.
He is surpassed in death by his father, Richard J Scorziello, Sr. of Bradenton, FL and brother Ronald J. Scorziello of Lewes, DE.
The Big DogÉGone too soon, always in our hearts and never to be forgotten.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ManasotaMemorial.com for the Scorziello family.
