Richard P. Sturgis, surrounded by his loving family, passed on peacefully to God on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at the age of 80.

Born in Boston to the late Richard V. Sturgis and Alice F. (Jarvis) Sturgis, Richard was a cherished son, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Raised in Quincy, Richard was a proud graduate of Quincy High School and later earned his Bachelor’s degree from Boston College, where he laid the foundation for a life characterized by determination and a strong work ethic. He went on to manage his father’s three local taverns—Adams Tavern in Quincy, Peter & Dick's Tavern in Dorchester, and Peter & Dick’s Tavern in South Boston, places where his friendly demeanor became a staple of the establishments. In addition to his work in the family business, Richard was also a dedicated member of the Union and worked for Freeman Decorating for decades, managing the installation of trade shows at the Hynes Convention Center and World Trade Center.

Richard’s work ethic and dedication crossed over into his personal endeavors as well. In his early thirties, he took up running to rehabilitate an injured back. This exercise quickly developed into a passion for running that led Richard to become one of the founders of the Quincy Flyers Running Club at the Quincy YMCA. He ran many road races and eventually ran two Boston Marathons. His athleticism grew as he added swimming and biking into his training regimen. Richard went on to compete in various triathlons, including an Olympic Distance Triathlon which consists of a 1.5-kilometer swim, a 40-kilometer bike ride, and a 10-kilometer run.

One of Richard’s favorite places was Nantasket Beach in Hull. Well before he started his open water swimming training at Nantasket, he would enjoy the sand and waves with his two daughters, Heidi and Rachel. Many summer days were spent with his girls enjoying the rides at Paragon Park, playing mini golf under the roller coaster, making sand castles, learning to body surf in the waves, and eating hamburgers from Carl’s.

Anyone who knew Richard, knew about his love of cars. An avid NASCAR fan, Richard watched all the races and owned more than a few Tony Stewart t-shirts. He considered his “hobby”, caring for and keeping his stylish 1991 Jaguar XJS in top shape. His Jag earned him a few awards from local car shows.  

Family was the cornerstone of Richard's world. He was a devoted father to Heidi Cerullo and her husband Stephen of Norton, and to Rachel (Meissner) Haley and her husband Robert of Hull. He was adored by his devoted grandchildren Luke Cerullo of Norton and Abigail Meissner of Hull, who will continue to be guided by his wisdom and kindness. Richard was predeceased by his loving sister, Beverly Lacks, and leaves behind three nephews, Lee Todd Lacks, Derek Lacks, and Jon Lacks, and an extensive family of cousins.

Richard's easy smile, friendly nature, and generosity will be missed by all who knew him. We celebrate a man who loved his family deeply and enjoyed life to the fullest.  

Visiting hours at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home 326 Granite Ave Milton on Sunday, November 3rd from 3:00pm-6:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, November 4th at 10am at St. John the Baptist Church, Quincy, MA.  Interment will be at Woodside Cemetery in Cohasset. 

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