Obituary of Richard A. Verdi Sr.

Richard A. Verdi, Sr., age 78, of Thornton, PA, passed away peacefully at home on June 11, 2025. Born in Philadelphia and raised in Ridley Park, Richard had been a proud resident of Thornton for the past 50 years. He dedicated 40 years of service to Amtrak as an Assistant Chief Dispatcher, retiring in 2006. Richard found great joy in simple pleasures—tending to his yard, maintaining his pool, and working around the house. He had a deep affection for his cats and was an avid baseball fan. In his younger years, Richard was a passionate hunter and cherished his time spent at both his shore and mountain homes. A proud veteran, Richard honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gail Sarnasky Verdi, and his parents, Adolf and Theresa Amato Verdi. Richard is survived by his devoted son, Richard Verdi Jr. And his wife Elizabeth; his loving companion, Diana Berends; three siblings, Edward Verdi, Gary Verdi, and Joanne Merle; and two cherished grandchildren, Isabelle and Richard Verdi. A visitation will be held on Wednesday from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Rd., Garnet Valley, PA, followed by funeral services at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at Edgewood Memorial Park, Glen Mills, PA. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.paganofuneralhome.com.