Richard Fay Withington died at home, as gracefully and peacefully as he lived, on November 1, 2013 at the age of 91.
Born in Brookline, MA to Katharyn Whipple and Lothrop Withington, he was the 4th of their nine children. Rick attended The Belmont Hill School followed by Harvard University, class of 1946. Rick's time at Harvard was interrupted by service in WWII during which he piloted B-24 aircraft.
Following WWII service, he began a career in management with the T.A.D. Jones company of New Haven, CT. He later worked for the Wiggin Terminals in Boston and for NSTAR as a right of way agent for 35 years, retiring in 1992.
He married the love of his life, Katharine Driscoll, in May of 1950 and celebrated their 50TH Wedding Anniversary in 2000 shortly before Kay’s passing.
He was a lifelong member of The Plymouth Country Club. Along with his wife Kay, Rick was an avid golfer, having begun playing at the age of 7. He recently remarked “playing for a long time doesn't mean that you get any better.” He was a past president of the Eel River Beach Club and also a regular hand at the Chiltonville Cheaters Card Club. Rick served on innumerable civic and town boards as well as town meeting. He was the founder of Plymouth Youth Hockey and instrumental in building The Plymouth Skating Rink.
However, Rick drew the most meaning from his family and myriad friends. Patient listening to and championship of the causes of children as well as the “underdogs” in every walk of life were hallmarks of his manner. His late wife Kay often reinforced his belief to look for the best possibilities in people. Perhaps, not coincidentally, the Red Sox won the World series at home on the eve of his loss.
He is survived by his sisters Lee Atkins, Ann “Pandy” Brewster as well as two brothers, Nathan and Paul. He also leaves behind his three sons and their spouses, Richard F. Withington Jr. and Kathy of West Newbury, MA, Sean Withington and Lois Atherton of Plymouth, Michael Withington and Terri, also of Plymouth, and five grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers Whip , Dennett, Lothrop, and his sister Marietta Brewster.
Known as a gentleman in every sense of the word, Rick is also survived by innumerable friends and extended family, many of whom refer to him as the father that they never had.
A Memorial service is to be held on Saturday, November 16, 10:00 AM at the Unitarian Universalist First Parish Church, 19 Town Square, Plymouth, MA. In lieu of flowers, please spend some time with those close to your heart. Donations to Cranberry Hospice, 36 Cordage Park Cir, Plymouth, MA.