Remembering Beloved Lexington Park Plaza Azteca Manager Ricardo Arias

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — The Lexington Park community is mourning the loss of Ricardo, “Ricky”, Arias, the longtime manager of Plaza Azteca, whose warmth, dedication and welcoming personality made him a familiar face to countless residents over the years.

Arias died Tuesday evening following a medical emergency at the restaurant on Three Notch Road, according to emergency responders. First responders were dispatched to the restaurant shortly before 8 p.m. for a reported cardiac emergency. Despite lifesaving efforts at the scene, Arias later died at an area hospital.

For many customers, Arias was more than a restaurant manager. He was often the first person to greet guests walking through the doors and became known throughout Southern Maryland for his friendly smile, attentive service and commitment to both employees and patrons.

His death has prompted an outpouring of grief across social media, where customers, friends and co-workers have shared memories of the man many considered part of their extended family.

A Familiar Face In The Community

As manager of Plaza Azteca in Lexington Park, Arias helped establish the restaurant as one of the area’s most popular dining destinations. Regular customers frequently encountered him checking on tables, greeting families and ensuring guests felt welcome.

Friends and supporters described him as a dedicated worker whose kindness extended beyond the restaurant’s walls.

According to a fundraising campaign established following his death, Arias was remembered as “a fundamental figure not only at Plaza Azteca, but also in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.” The campaign describes him as a person whose warmth, dedication and spirit of service left a lasting impact on the community.

The fundraiser also gave thanks to the community stating, “We would like to express our sincerest gratitude for the outpouring of love, continued support, and solidarity we have received since this tragic event occurred. Seeing how deeply Ricardo was loved brings us comfort and reminds us of the tremendous positive impact he had on each of your lives. Your support during these difficult times is the greatest tribute we can give to his legacy.”

Community Rallies Around Family

In the days following his passing, friends and family members launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover expenses associated with returning Arias to his homeland for his final resting place.

Vane Avelar stated that Arias’ final wish was to return home to be laid to rest with his loved ones. The fundraiser seeks assistance with legal, transportation and repatriation expenses while allowing the community an opportunity to honor his memory.

Click here to donate to the GoFundMe

Supporters have continued sharing memories online, recalling Arias’ generosity, compassion and the personal connections he built with customers over the years.

Remembering Ricardo

The loss of Arias leaves a noticeable void within the restaurant and throughout the Lexington Park community. For many residents, Plaza Azteca was not simply a place to enjoy a meal, but a place where they were welcomed by someone who genuinely cared about the people who walked through the door.

As family, friends, co-workers and customers continue to mourn his passing, many are choosing to remember the lasting impression he made through simple acts of kindness, hospitality and service.

Those wishing to support Arias’ family may contribute to the fundraising campaign established in his memory.

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