Donald James Richard, lately of Wimauma, FL, and Cotuit, MA, passed away July 20, 2025 due to medical complications from an extended illness.  His wife, daughters, and friend of 52 years, Steve Thigpen, were with him when he passed.

Don was the fifth and youngest child of Alderic Guillaume Richard and Katherine (Goldrick) Richard.  Raised in Seekonk, MA, Don was bright, athletic and charismatic and enjoyed life on Harman Ave. He excelled in football and basketball and was highly competitive.  As a top athlete, he was offered athletic scholarships.  He graduated from UMASS Amherst, where he received a B.S. in Chemistry.

His career focused on domestic and international molecular carbon air filtration and non-woven fiber manufacturing sales. His work led him and his family to move throughout the US, but ultimately, Cape Cod was their home.

Don enjoyed golf, and played often and well.  His armchair quarterback and sportscaster skills were unrivaled.  No matter the sport, Don was an expert.  He called plays at least as good as the sportscasters and players probably heard him through the TV.  He missed his calling.

Above all else, Don loved his family.  When not traveling for work, he spent as much time as possible with his wife and daughters.  One of his favorite things was Sunday drives after church.  He was present for every milestone, providing support, being a constant presence throughout their lives.  With his daughter Eliza's Down Syndrome diagnosis, he loved her all the more for it.  He championed her limitless abilities, celebrated her Special Olympics medals, and traveled last year to see her receive a certificate from Middlesex Community College in MA.  He and his family were grateful for every day they spent together.

Don is predeceased by his parents and brothers, Curtis and Paul Richard.  He is survived by his wife, June (Rankin) Richard, and daughters, Olivia, Erin, and Eliza. He is also survived by sisters, Elaine Richard (James) Funk of Jacksonville, FL, Sharon Richard Kisiday, Seal Beach, CA, sisters-in-law, Linda (Curtis) Richard, N. Smithfield, RI, Valerie Shivel, Millersville, MD, Becky (Rick) Chaney, Glen Burnie, MD, Elizabeth (Brad) Hunt, Millersville, MD, brother-in-law, Matthew (Misty) Rankin, Andersonville, TN, and a multitude of dear nieces, nephews and friends, particularly Steve Thigpen, Charley Wherry, Pat Dunfee, and neighbors Chris, Louis and Julio.

A celebration of life will be held in October at Christ the King Church in Mashpee, MA with internment in Cotuit, MA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Don's memory to the Global Down Syndrome Foundation: https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/global-donation-form/ .