Deacon Richard Lenard Cohen was born to Mr. and Mrs. Herbert and Nancy Cohen. He was educated in the Duval County Public School system, where he laid the foundation for a life of hard work and dedication.
Richard was a man who believed in service, both to his community and his faith. He was employed for many years with Orange County Public Schools, where he faithfully served as a custodian until his retirement. Known for his strong work ethic and reliability, he took pride in every task he performed.
At an early age, Richard accepted Christ and received the gift of the Holy Ghost at Zion Temple First Born Church of the Living God, Inc. where he served faithfully as a devoted Deacon. His commitment to God and the church was unwavering. After relocating to Orlando, Florida, he continued his spiritual journey as an active and dedicated member of Ball’s Temple First Born Church of the Living God, Inc.
Richard was widely known for his skills as a handyman. He was the proud owner of Holy Honest Handyman, a business that reflected both his craftsmanship and integrity. Whether fixing, building, or creating, he worked diligently with his hands. In his leisure time, he found joy in cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. Despite his many talents, his greatest passion was serving the Lord. His favorite scripture, James 3:11–18, reflected the wisdom and purity he strived to live by.
On November 20, 1998, Richard was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Sylvia Ward-Armstrong. Their union of 27 years was filled with love, commitment, and faith. To this union, one son, Richard Deron Cohen, was born.
He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Nancy Cohen; his sister, Gail Diane Cohen Thomas; his stepson, Arthur Armstrong; and his stepsister, Sonya Slater.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife of 27 years, Sylvia Cohen; his son, Richard Cohen; and his stepdaughters, Monica Armstrong and Sonia Armstrong. He is also survived by his father Herbert (Francene) Cohen; and siblings: Gary (Eunice) Cohen, Ronald (Karen) Cohen, Bruce (Faye) Cohen, Sr., Angela (Hilton) Manuel, Herbert (Lacadiette) Cohen, Terrance (Pamela) Cohen, and Roderick (Lashanda) Cohen; a stepsister, Tonya Slater; a godsister, Zelda Thompson and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Deacon Richard Lenard Cohen will be remembered for his faithful service, loving spirit, and the legacy of integrity and devotion he leaves behind. His life was a testament to hard work, faith in God, and love for family.