Richard Devero

His Life Story 

Richard Barry Devero II, also known as Rafiq, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on December 4, 1965, to the late Idella Sheppard and the late Richard B. Devero Sr. 

Rafiq was raised in South Philadelphia and educated in the Philadelphia public school system. He attended Barber school where he obtained his Barber Manager License and with the determination to bring his dreams to life settled in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the age of 26. 

The name Rafiq means” a kind friend and a friend to all”, and he was just that. He wanted for his brothers, what he wanted for himself. Despite the appearance of his tough outer shell, he was truly a gentle man. Always encouraging others with uplifting words and motivational conversations. Some of his favorite lines were: “You want to be a thoroughbred or a loaf of bread?” ”Keep it straight up and down like 6 o’clock” “El Scramble Eggo” but his favorite line was, “Take the E out of emotion and put things in motion.” 

Rafiq was a barber for 25+ years and the proud owner of Love For All Barbershop. He was also an entrepreneur, husband, boxer, a bonafide hustler and always up for a game of chess. But his true love was for boxing. Instilled in him at a young age, and always on display you could catch him holding the pads, teaching techniques, or just shadow boxing up & down the street. Rafiq was a man that held many titles. OG, BossMan, Pops, Coach, mentor to many, an honorable man and a pillar to the community. He was a true champ. Throughout his life, he continuously offered his time and services to everyone he met. Through these shared memories, and many more, he will continue to live in our hearts. 

Rafiq is preceded in death by his grandmother Letha R. 

Devero and sister Dawn Marie Patterson. 

Leaving to cherish his memories: His loving wife Talonda Devero, brothers Donzie and Ronald Devero, sons, Dontae, Rafiq (Grecia), Anthony, Antoine,