October 2, 2026
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 child of Alderic Guillaume Richard and Katherine (Goldrick) Richard. Raised in Seekonk, MA, Don excelled in football and basketball and 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 sales. His work led him and his family to move throughout the US, but ultimately, Cape Cod was their home.
Above all else, Don loved his family. 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, FL, Sharon Richard Kisiday, CA; Sisters-In-Law: Linda (Curtis) Richard, RI, Valerie Shivel, MD, Becky (Rick) Chaney, MD, Elizabeth (Brad) Hunt, MD, brother-in-law Matthew (Misty) Rankin, TN, 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 on October 11th,11am at Christ the King Church in Mashpee, MA with internment at Oak Grove Cemetery in Falmouth, MA immediately following.
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/.
