Richard Lee Wilder

Richard Lee Wilder, 72, returned to his Heavenly Father on December 3, 2025, in Fort Pierce, Florida.

Mr. Wilder was born on October 4, 1953, in Monroe, New York. A hardworking man throughout his life, Richard held many jobs—some he loved more than others—but each helped shape the devoted, capable man he became. He worked as an equipment operator for Environmental Land Development and had recently earned a promotion to Crew Foreman, a testament to his dedication and leadership.

Richard spent many years in the citrus industry, most recently with Campbell Groves, and proudly lived the life of a cowboy while working at Adams Ranch—one of his most cherished roles. A natural entrepreneur, he owned and operated several businesses, including R & R Construction and Cutt Throat Meat Processing Company.

He was a member of Elks Lodge #1520, the NRA, and the Wiley Selected Airboat Association.

Richard was a loving and attentive husband, a loving father, loyal friend, and a man who never missed an opportunity to help or teach someone. He had a gift for guiding the younger generation and took pride in sharing his knowledge. He loved spending time in North Carolina with his family and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding airboats. A true country gentleman, devoted father, and beloved brother, Richard touched many lives. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Survivors include his wife, Sheila Rae Stokes Wilder of Fort Pierce, FL; son, Richard “Dickie” (Leslie) Wilder of Fort Pierce, FL, and his children, Kylee (Tio) Ruiz, Kelsey (Joey) Mariano, Dylan (Leann Masters) Lechlieter, and Cody (Paige) Cox; daughter, Stephanie Jacquin of Fort Pierce, FL, and her children, Paul Jacquin and Tyler (Kendyl) Jacquin; daughter, Karlene (Joey) Hunter of Fort Pierce, FL, and their children, Sadie Granie and Zach Granie; daughter, Marie (Josh) Jenkins of Vero Beach, FL; great-grandchildren, Bentlei, Branson, Lylah, Joey, Adalynn, Addison, and Alyssa; sister, Gloria Wilder of North Carolina; brother, Sherman Shari Wilder of Vero Beach, FL; brother, Tody (Donna) Wilder of Vero Beach, FL; sister, Kathy Wall of Fort Pierce, FL; sister, Annette (Dave) Kinser of Okeechobee, FL; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of 50 years, Libby Peterson Wilder; his mother, Shirley Jack; father, Theodore Wilder; and nephew, Michael Wall.