Richard Lee Strong, a native of Chicago, Illinois and a resident of Mobile, Alabama, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the age of 49.
Richard loved his own creations, such as his numerous black characters and his own brand of clothing, Vazi-Ra! He envisioned his own characters being published, opening the comic space to new original characters. Vazi-Ra is a blend of African languages and native animals of his own free hand drawings.
Richard is preceded in death by his father, Will Strong; his mother, Sherelle Keita; and his ex-wife, Christy Lynn Williams.
He is survived by his fiancé’ of 12 years, Jamie Hicks; his children, Rachel L. Strong, Raven L. Strong, Robyn L. Strong and Rynae L. Strong; his grandchildren, MéL’eiah Andrea (Melanie Hicks) and Iceland Aia Strong (Raven Strong); his siblings, Will Strong, Jr. (Rebecca Ann Strong), Kellee Burks (Ron Burk), Latisha Barnes and Laskieuse Whiting; Latoya Boykin; and his stepmother, Shirley Strong.
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
The Text Message I sent my Brother.
Richard, I know you will not receive this message because you left us a week ago today. I spoke to you on May 13 for 42 minutes. I didn’t realize that would be the last time I spoke to you. I didn’t know that the last time I would see you alive was at Pops’ Funeral, 7 Months and 11 days ago. My heart is broken, and I miss you, man. I wish we could had more time together. I will continue to check on Jamie and the girls. Love You, Bro. 😭😭😭😭😭
Words are inadequate to explain how much I miss you. I continually think about you. When I go to sleep, I think of you. When I wake up throughout the night, I think of you. As I go through my day, I think of you. I love you and miss you so badly. I can’t believe you aren’t here. I still want this to be a super long dream that I wake up from. I wanted to see you again. I wanted to have those sibling, nieces, and nephews reunion I mentioned several times. Oh, GOD!!!!! I miss you! I miss you! I miss you! 😭😭😭😭So thankful for the videos left behind. I am also thankful that we communicated regularly and that you decided to respond to one of my text through video the week before you died. 😭😭😭😭
Saying goodbye is always the most difficult. To the family and friends, Richard will be missed: but his children and grandchildren are a continued “Legacy which will always make sure Richard Strong will never be forgotten. Grief is often so hard to deal with, but God will always give you comfort. I will miss my nephew and I’m so ever grateful that his bloodline is ‘Strong’. Be encouraged
I knew Richard in my early elementary days. He was vibrant, funny, supremely artistic and an amazing athlete! Above all of that, he was a great friend! He was a joy to be around.
Even though we drifted apart, the wonderful memories remain to this day.
Rich was always inspiring. The Walter Payton of Calumet City. He inspired me to pursue art as he drew the dopest Raphael I ever saw! We shared a lot of similar interest, drawing, Sega, Football. That last one didn’t work out for me, but I’m glad I tried (lol) all thanks to my proud brother Richard🙏🏾