Richard Everett passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness on Saturday, October 1st. He was 69 years old. Born and raised in New Bedford, he was the son of the late Rose (Amaral) and Manuel Everett. Richard graduated from New Bedford High School in 1972 and the New England Institute of Funeral Directing and Embalming in 1974.
As a teenager, Richard embarked on a long and distinguished career as a funeral director and embalmer. He began as an apprentice in New Bedford and emerged as a respected trade embalmer in the New Bedford and Cape Cod areas. His passion for sailing led him to work as a marina supervisor in Newport, RI. Richard worked as a technician in the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and then at the famed J.S. Waterman & Sons Funeral Home in Kenmore Sq. For the last 25 years of his 40 year career he served families at the Dello Russo Funeral Home in Medford with his customary professionalism, attention to detail, and unparalleled work ethic. At his retirement in the spring of 2015, Richard was honored for his service to the people of Medford with the presentation of the “Key to the City” by Mayor Michael J. McGlynn.
In addition to his love for sailing, Richard achieved local notoriety for restoring a Model T Ford. He also enjoyed travelling. Richard and his late partner Willie travelled the globe by land, sea and air during their years together. Richard and Willie made their home in Revere for their 27 years together and welcomed family and friends for many celebrations, especially their annual Christmas party.
The loving and faithful partner of 27 years to the late William P. “Willie” Hackett III, Richard was the brother of the late Robert Everett. He is survived by his true and dear friends: Kelly Stone, the Stone family, and Chris Galluzzo. Richard also leaves his cousin Sandra Tavares and family as well as his great-niece, Amanda Simmons.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit on Thursday, October 6th from 3 – 7 PM at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St.,, Medford. The funeral procession will gather at 10:30 AM at the funeral home on Friday, followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, 118 High Street, Medford, at 11:30 AM. Services will conclude with burial at South Dartmouth Cemetery, S. Dartmouth, MA.
Richard has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.