Richard Rice, age 80, died peacefully in his sleep at his family home in Franklin Mass on Wednesday, August 18, 2021. He was the husband of the late Diane Kay (Duvall) Rice who died in 2018.
Born in Milford, April 16, 1941, the son of the late John and Anne (Lennon) Rice, he was raised in Franklin with his brother Jackie and was a graduate of Franklin High School.
Richard served in the United Stated Navy from 1959 thru 1962 on board the USS Courtney.
In 1971 he married Diane Duvall.
He worked for many years as an electrician in the Norfolk prison until he retired. He was a member of the Franklin Elks and the American Legion. He enjoyed recalling his firsthand knowledge of the history and families of Franklin especially with his close friends at Richie’s garage. Richard enjoyed traveling with his wife, his yearly treks to the Fryeburg Fair, visiting historical sites, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his children, David Doherty and his wife Becky of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, Tammy Doherty of Bergheim, Texas, Patrick Doherty and his wife Kim of Mendon , and Cindy Ripp and her husband Matt of Arlington, Wisconsin.
He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brian Doherty, Connor Doherty, Kaylin Doherty, Hannah Taylor, Grace Jones, Olivia Onorato, Alexandra Onorato, Nieley Ripp and Easton Ripp, and great grandchildren Declan Doherty and Mia Richard.
He was the brother of the late Jackie Rice.
His family remembers his generosity and love of learning.
His funeral will be held on Friday August 27 from the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com) 131 Main Street, Franklin at 9:15 followed by a funeral mass at St. Mary’s Church in Franklin at 10:00. Calling hours will be on Thursday from 4-7 p.m.
Please follow all CDC guideline including wearing face masks.
In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA. 02114.