Richard A. Wilson Jr. of Worcester passed peacefully on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at UMass Memorial Medical Center. He was a man about doing what is good and right, not about spoiling or over complicating. His laughter, wonderful stories and positive attitude will be greatly missed. Richard spent much of his time supporting his grandchildren’s activities, walking and riding his bike, visiting historic landmarks and spending summers on the coast of Maine. Through his passion in the history of the Blackstone Canal and published article in the Historic Journal of Massachusetts, he was a recognized historian. With his love of education, Richard taught in the Worcester Public School system for 31 years. After his retirement, he continued to make educational contributions by working part time for the Worcester Antiquarian Society.
Richard was born January 31, 1942 in Worcester, MA, first child of Richard A. Wilson Sr. and Doris Wilson. He married Joanne L. Fafard on July 1st, 1964. Richard is a graduate of St. Stephens High School and held a Masters of Education and Masters of History from Worcester State College. He was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps Reserves in 1965.
In addition to his loving wife of 52 years, Richard leaves their children, Peter Wilson and wife Diana, William Wilson and wife Donna and James Wilson and wife Gina. He also leaves his grandchildren, Zachary, Mathew, Kalin, Sofia, Lily, Colin and Roman.
Richard leaves his siblings, Kate Smyth and late husband Peter, Doris Grant and husband Frank, James Wilson and wife Sharon, Linda Smith and husband Gary and Thomas Wilson and wife Dianne.
Funeral services and burial in Notre Dame Cemetery will be private. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to the American Diabetes Association, 10 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701 or to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. O'Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester is directing arrangements.