Richard A. Dubois, 69, of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, retired Deputy Chief of the Woonsocket Police Department, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Landmark Medical Center. He was the loving husband of Gayle J. Amaral.
Born and raised in Woonsocket, he was the son of the late Raymond and Gloria (Hataburda) Dubois and remained a proud lifelong resident of the city. Rick was a graduate of Woonsocket High School, Class of 1974, and later earned his degree from Roger Williams University.
From a young man just out of high school, Rick wore every uniform he was called upon to serve in with immense pride. He served in the United States Air Force, and was honorably discharged in 1978. Later he went on to join the Woonsocket Police Department where he started as patrolman working his way up as SWAT Team Coordinator, Homeland Security Coordinator and Deputy Chief on the department's command staff. After 27 years of service he retired in 2008.
Following his law enforcement career, Rick held the position of Director of Security for Admirals Bank and later FM Global in Chepachet, and soon after became a licensed private investigator and Rhode Island State Constable.
Rick’s deep devotion to his family was matched by his commitment to a rigorous strength-training regimen. This same unwavering, some might even say relentless, discipline and dedication shaped the way he lived every day of his life.
When away from work and the gym, Rick rode his Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle Ultra Classic motorcycle. His passion for riding extended to supporting important causes, such as the annual bike runs for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Foundation. He was a proud member of two motorcycle clubs: the Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and the Ocean State Harley Owners Group in Warwick, RI.
Rick will be remembered as a dedicated and selfless veteran who proudly served his country, faithfully protected his community, generously gave to those in need, and loved his family above all else. In addition to his beloved wife, Gayle, of 33 wonderful years, Rick is lovingly survived by his daughter, Bethany Butler, and her husband, Kevin, of Woonsocket. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Austin Ballou, Brandon Dettloff, and Abigail Butler. He was predeceased by his sister, Phyllis Dubois, and is also survived by his younger sister, Cathy Glode, both of Burrillville.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Rick’s Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish / Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church, 1409 Park Avenue, Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Military honors will be rendered following the service, and family and friends are invited to remain afterward to gather in celebration and remembrance of Rick’s remarkable life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, his family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be directed to Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), the Wounded Warrior Project, or to a charity of your choice that honors Rick’s unwavering integrity and profound devotion to duty, honor, and service to others.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Avenue, Woonsocket.
www.menardfuneralhome.com