Richard L. Hunter

Richard Louis Hunter, age 75, of Sarasota, Florida, peacefully passed away at home on December 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with lung cancer.

Richard was born in Lynn, Massachusetts, and raised in Nahant, Massachusetts. He was a proud graduate of Lynn English High School.

Sergeant Hunter bravely served two tours in Vietnam with the United States Air Force. He later reenlisted in the National Army Reserves and received honorable discharges from both, serving his country with dedication and pride.

Richard spent his life as a highly skilled welder and fabricator, taking great pride in mastering his craft. He was widely known as “the best” at what he did. Beyond his professional work, he enjoyed creating unique pieces of art from leftover materials, transforming scraps into meaningful creations.

Richard was married to the love of his life, Linda Hunter, for fifty years. Together they raised six children. He was the embodiment of what a husband and father should be—fully present, deeply loving, and endlessly supportive. He attended or coached every sporting and school event, sometimes with such spirited enthusiasm that he was kindly asked to step aside. His fatherly love extended well beyond his own children; there was always room for one more at his table and always time for advice from “Dad.” Countless camping trips, family vacations, beach days, and beautiful holiday celebrations created a lifetime of treasured memories.

A loyal friend to many, Richard could always be counted on to show up or lend a hand. He had a joke and a smile for everyone and found humor in everyday life.

Richard was a talented singer and could often be found alongside his wife, Linda, at their local karaoke, where he was affectionately known as “Rickster.” His signature songs included “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” and “Puff the Magic Dragon.”

A devoted sports fan, Richard never missed a game. One of his happiest moments was witnessing the Boston Red Sox win the World Series in 2004.

He enjoyed weekly poker games with his wife, sisters, and cousin, and he and Linda played cribbage together every night—a cherished daily tradition.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Hunter of Florida; his brother Joseph Hunter and wife Barbera of Florida; sisters Theresa Bachelor of Florida and Susan Forbush and husband John of Florida; and his children: Tracey Feeley and husband Shawn of Florida, Richard Hunter II and wife Shannon of Rhode Island, Christina Hunter of Massachusetts, Julia Abbott and husband William of New Hampshire, Liberty Sims of Connecticut, and Rebecca Hunter of Massachusetts. He also leaves behind seventeen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom lovingly called him “Papa.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Frank Hunter; his sister Elizabeth Leonard; and his brother-in-law Richard Bachelor.

A celebration of Richard’s life, including a memorial Mass, will be held this spring in Plaistow, New Hampshire. A graveside ceremony with full military honors will follow at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, New Hampshire.

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