Richard E. “Ripper” Reagan, age 89, of Brockton, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024, at Morton Hospital. Ripper was the beloved husband of Mary (Pezzano) Reagan for 65 wonderful years. Born and raised in Brockton, he was the cherished son of the late Dennis and Margaret (Boyle) Reagan, Jr.
Ripper was a proud graduate of Monsignor Coyle High School, where he made a significant mark in athletics and was later inducted into Coyle’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He furthered his education at Boston College, where he played football, demonstrating his passion and talent for the sport. Upon graduating from BC, he obtained his Master’s Degree from Bridgewater State College.
After college, Ripper dedicated many years to teaching algebra at Brockton High School, shaping the minds of countless students. His professional career also included roles as Director of Operations at the Raynham Dog Track and the Brockton Fair.
Ripper's greatest pride was his family and their achievements. He cherished the time spent with them, particularly during summers in Wareham and winters in Florida. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Ripper continued to be active well into his later years, working out at the gym until the age of 85. He was an avid golfer and a longtime member of the Brockton Country Club, where he celebrated the remarkable achievement of shooting a hole in one. Ripper was also a longtime member of the Bertocci Club.
In addition to his devoted wife Mary, Ripper is survived by his children Glenn P. Reagan and his partner Jennifer Quinn of Raynham, Sheri L. Reagan of Taunton, Richard E. Reagan Jr. and his wife Dyan (Purtell) of Bridgewater, and Barry Reagan and his wife Chantel (Frenette) of Carver. He was the proud grandfather of Derek and Alicia Gomes, Sean, Taylor, Connor, Matthew, Brooke, Cullen, and Ava Reagan, and the great-grandfather of Gizelle and Derek Gomes, Connor “CJ” Reagan, Jr., and Emma Michele Reagan. Ripper was the brother of the late Robert Reagan, Denise Jackson, and Phyllis Dempsey-Ayvazian.
Visiting hours will be held in the Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont Street (Rte 123) Brockton, on Thursday, August 15th from 4:00-8:00PM. The funeral procession will gather at the funeral home on Friday at 9:30AM for a Funeral Mass in St. Ann’s Church, West Bridgewater, at 10:30AM. Burial will follow in Melrose Cemetery, Brockton.