Richard (“Dick”) Forsyth, one of the last true family patriarchs, passed away at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. He will be remembered for his captivating stories, his commanding yet warm presence, and the unmistakable twinkle in his blue eyes.
Dick was raised in Ithaca, New York, alongside his four sisters Thelma, Phyllis, Patricia, and Dianne, by his parents, Wallace and Dorothy Ross Forsyth. From his father, he inherited a lifelong passion for cars—especially Ford—which remained a constant source of enjoyment throughout his life.
He served in the U.S. Army, where he met the love of his life, Mary (O’Toole), while stationed at Fort Devens, sharing sweet early memories over Kimball’s Ice Cream. Dick and Mary celebrated a remarkable 62 years of marriage, beginning their life together in Ithaca before settling in Tewksbury, MA, which would be their home for 55 years.
Together, Dick and Mary raised 10 children, creating a lively and loving home. Dick cherished family adventures, especially camping trips to Fish Creek on the Saranac Lakes, where he famously packed everyone in—often traveling in an extended limo outfitted with a camper to accommodate his large brood. He also found joy in flying his Piper aircraft, whether embarking on cross-country trips or simply taking his grandchildren up for unforgettable rides.
Professionally, Dick spent 28 years as an auto mechanics teacher at Quincy Vocational School. His expertise inspired generations of students, and his love for the trade was proudly passed down to several of his sons and grandsons. Even after his teaching career, he continued working out of pure enjoyment, driving trucks and buses.
A man of deep faith and generosity, Dick was a reliable pillar for his loved ones and a dedicated member of the St. William’s parish community. A gifted conversationalist, he was never shy about sharing his opinions or proudly speaking about his family. His holiday traditions were legendary—most notably making dozens of batches of fudge for the parish Christmas Fair and p"|ersonally delivering or shipping packages to loved ones across the country.
In retirement, Dick and Mary traveled extensively, often with family and friends (the "Bus People"). During their travels, he developed a deep appreciation for Irish culture. Above all, he treasured the time they spent exploring the world together. In his later years, he was surrounded by the care, attention, and love of his children.
While his presence will be deeply missed, there is comfort in knowing he has been reunited with the “best (only) wife he ever had.”
Dick is survived by his children and their spouses: MaryAnn (Gerry) Laferriere, Robert Forsyth, Kathleen (Raymond) Laferriere, Beth (Brendan) Byrne, Thomas (Corinna) Forsyth, Teresa (Michael) Kirby, James Forsyth (Joanne), Peggy (Brad) Davidson, and Maureen (Iggy) Baran. He also leaves behind 22 grandchildren and an ever-expanding 20 great-grandchildren. His legacy also includes much extended family, all of whom he loved dearly.
He is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife Mary, his son Ricky, and his grandson Tim.
You are welcome to attend his calling hours from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8 at Tewksbury Funeral Home, 1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury, MA. You are also welcome to attend his funeral mass which will be offered on Thursday, April 9 at 10 a.m. at St. William of York Church in Tewksbury, immediately followed by his military honors in recognition of his service to our country. His burial will be held privately at a later date. In Dick’s memory, the family asks you to consider a memorial donation in his name to the Gary Sinise Foundation, PO Box 40726, Nashville, TN 37204. Please visit www.tewksburyfuneralhome.com or find us on Facebook to send the family a message of condolence.