Richard Peter Perry, 78
Our hero and role model, Richard Peter Perry, 78, of South Dartmouth, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. He was the husband of more than 50 years to the late Joyce (Doucette) Perry, his lifelong sweetheart, and the beloved son of the late Francis and Victoria (Sabra) Perry.
Richard lived with steadfast devotion: to his faith, to his family, to his friends, and to his work. It was devotion that carried him through his years of service to our country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War-an achievement he held with great pride. It was devotion that fueled his belief that no job was done until it was done the right way. And it was devotion that guided his hands, generous and ever-willing, to the aid of anyone in need. His true spirit was captured in his radiant smile.
A lifelong athlete, Richard enjoyed training and competed in races of all kinds, including marathons and triathlons. He often used these opportunities to raise money for mission- driven organizations he cared about, such as Dana-Farber. His favorite race was the Fairhaven Father's Day Road Race, which he ran alongside his grandchildren, smiling each step of the way. His most-loved hobby was restoring cars. His final restoration produced one of his proudest accomplishments: A multi-award-winning '57 Chevy Bel Air.
Richard is survived by his three children, Chad Perry (wife Shannon), Michelle Perry (partner Josh), and Jarrod Perry (wife Donna), and by five grandchildren whom he adored: Kerrin Perry, Ashton and Elias McGuire-Perry, Jocelyn Perry, and Kolby Cunningham. He is also survived by his brothers-his twin, Robert Perry, along with Ronald Perry and Eric Perry-and his sisters: Cynthia Freitas, Lois Perry, Susan Harrop, and Lynne Morse. He was predeceased by his sister, Janet Reis. And he will be profoundly missed by his beloved Yorkiepoo, Daisy, who brought him great joy.
Richard's family would like to offer their eternal gratitude to all the staff at Accent Care and Beyond Care for the skilled and attentive care they provided, to Liz and Sharon for their support and dedication, and to the compassionate staff at St. Anne's Hospital who held us up and carried us through this journey. We will not forget you.
His Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 11 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Wednesday from 9-11 AM, prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please honor Richard's memory by donating to your favorite charity. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
