Richard ‘Rocky’ Rios, 78, died peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 31 at his Oakdale home.

He joyously celebrated his 37th wedding anniversary with his wife, Janet Rios, on the day of his death.

He was born in Los Angeles, the son of Frances Castillo. He grew up in Modesto before moving to Santa Cruz to raise his family; finally settling in Oakdale in 1983.

Mr. Rios was known as the “paint and body man” and is well recognized in the local auto body industry for this talent he began to master as a young man.

He was known for being a dedicated student of the Bible. As a baptized Jehovah’s Witness, he lived a studious life in meditation of the Scriptures, applying its wisdom in his life and selflessly sharing it with others. He served as a loving elder in the Oakdale East Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

He was known for his humble, giving personality, always putting others’ needs before his own. His trademark hearty and contagious laugh will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Janet Rios; nine children; his mother; three brothers; two sisters, 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many friends, who were like his extended family.

He was preceded in death by one sister.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness, 4940 Claus Road, Modesto, followed by a reception at Gladys Lemmons Community Senior Center, 450 East A St., Oakdale.

Remembrances may be made to the Rocky Rios memorial fund that has been established at Wells Fargo Bank.