Richard Francis Zerbonia

Richard Francis Zerbonia, 77, of Hannibal, Missouri, passed away on October 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, October 10, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Ilasco, MO. Father Mike Quinn will officiate.

Visitation will be held 10:00 AM until the time of the service Thursday at Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Richard's final resting place will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO, where an official military service on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM.

The family is being served by the Smith Funeral Home & Chapel of Hannibal.

Richard was born on November 20, 1946, in Hannibal, MO the son of  Vincent and Agnes (Romerio) Zerbonia.

Richard graduated from Hannibal High School, earned his bachelor's degree from Hannibal LaGrange College, and later received his MBA from William Woods University. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam Conflict.

Richard is survived by his soulmate, Karen Miller Zerbonia; seven children, Angelica Zerbonia Ramey (John),  Heather Cleavinger (Matt), Ron Elliott (Tiffany), Zachary Slade, Brandon Dopp, Tylor Zerbonia (Sarah)and Taylor Hams (Seth).

Richard adored his grandchildren, including Cassady Shuck, Kennady Stansberry (Lee), Kamaryn Shuck, Bryn Dietle, Sydney, Molly Grace, Hadley and Laney Cleavinger, Meadow, Keagan and Alec Elliott, Luca, Owen and Lena Zerbonia, Mara, Jack and Henry Hams, as well as his great-grandchildren Augusta and Amelia Rodriguez and Oliver McConnell; brothers, William (RoseMary), Robert (Emira) and John Zerbonia and sister-in-law Patsy Zerbonia.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and eldest brother, Vincent Zerbonia.

Richard worked for Burlington Northern Railroad, AT&T and as Director of Operations for Hannibal Clinic before retiring.

Richard was known for his larger-than-life personality, his dashing good looks, and his magnetic charm. He loved spending time with his close-knit Italian family. he enjoyed sports especially Mizzou women's basketball team,traveling, cooking delicious Italian meals- especially his famous spaghetti and meatballs and sharing lively debates with his children over great food and wine. Richard most of all cherished his time with his grandchildren and pups Gracie and Ruby.

Richard was a dedicated member of Holy Family Church, Richard found joy in serving his faith and community. His infectious smile and passion for life made him unforgettable, and his love for family and friends was the center of everything he did.

In lieu of flowers,  memorial contributions may be made to Holy Cross Catholic Church and Holy Family Catholic School in care of Smith Funeral Home & Chapel.

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Richard's memorial page at www.smithfuneralhomeandchapel.com