Frank M Richards

RICHARDS, FRANK, 81, most recently of Spring Hill, FL and Seabrook, NH. Frank never met a stranger that stayed that way for long. Strangers became friends, friends became family, and family was everything to him. Despite growing up in New York City, Frank was a die hard Red Sox fan. He enjoyed a cold beer - preferably a Yuengling - almost as much as he loved teasing the waitresses at every restaurant he visited. Frank could find humor in almost every situation. He was never afraid to be the butt of a joke; he could take it as well as he could give it. The only thing bigger than his laugh was the love he had for his family and friends. Frank was the consummate host. He loved to entertain family and friends, making sure that everyone had what they needed and knew that they were always welcome. He could be counted on to wake up early to clean the pool or to make French toast for his grandchildren. There is no doubt that many people in his life believed that they were his favorite. He had a knack for making people feel that way. Frank enjoyed traveling the world but always scheduled a yearly visit to Aruba, where he made lifelong friends.

Frank served in the United States Navy for 5 years as an aviation machinist’s mate, a jet engine mechanic. He spent more than 20 years as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. After his service, Frank was a loyal member of the Post 19 in Somerville. The position that he held for the longest was the doting husband of his wife of 45 years, Barbara. Frank served as Barbara’s constant companion and took pride in taking care of her every need. She was the love of his life and he absolutely adored her. 

When he married Barbara in 1978, he became the stepfather to Don, Donna and Barbara Jean. Throughout the years, he developed connections and built relationships with each of them, making memories along the way. The pride that Frank had in his grandchildren was evident by the sparkle in his eyes and the big smile he wore when he was with them. He built unique and beautiful relationships with all of his grandchildren and their spouses, giving out advice, hugs and I love yous whenever he was with them. 

Frank was predeceased by his mother Jessie Bassett and his siblings, Jane, Dicky and James, his niece Lynn and nephew James. He is survived by his brother, Donald, his nieces Jayneanne and Paula, as well as many other nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his wife Barbara, his stepchildren Donald and his wife Jeannine, Donna and her husband Bob, and Barbara Jean. Additionally his love will live on in his grandchildren, Nicole and her husband, Mike, Courtney and her husband Matt, Stefani, Jenna and Jared and his wife Kayla. His great grandchildren Cooper, Leo, Ellis and Faye will carry on his legacy of love, laughter and fun. Papou/Papa/Frank's absence will be deeply felt by everyone who knew and cherished him. However, we will cherish the memories we made with him, recalling his generosity, sense of humor, and loving and caring nature.

A service honoring his life will be held at Bourne National Cemetery at a later date. Donations can be made in Frank's honor to the Veterans Association of America or Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.