Obituary: Richard Fucci

July 16, 1947 – June 8, 2026

In Loving Memory of Richard Armand Fucci
July 16, 1947 – June 8, 2026

Richard Armand Fucci, “Rick,” was many things in his 79 years on earth: a Marine, an artist, a musician, an athlete, an investor, a gardener, a husband, a father, a grandfather, and above all, a man entirely and unapologetically himself.

Born on July 16, 1947, in Providence, Rhode Island, Rick came into the world with very little materially, growing up in a poor Italian family where life taught him early that nothing worth having comes easy. Through grit, intelligence, and determination, he became entirely self-made. He never waited for life to hand him anything. He built his own way.

Rick served his country proudly as a United States Marine during the Vietnam War. The discipline, courage, and resilience he carried from his military service stayed with him for the rest of his life.

He had a remarkable gift for almost everything he touched. Outdoors was where Rick felt most at home. He was an exceptional fisherman, skier, golfer, and tennis player—one of those rare people who seemed to possess both natural talent and the determination to master whatever interested him. Whether on a mountain, a golf course, a tennis court, or beside the water with a fishing rod in hand, he found joy and freedom in nature.

Rick was equally gifted creatively. He painted beautiful works in oil and was a professional guitar player with a deep appreciation for every genre of music. He loved Elvis Presley and Van Morrison. Music wasn’t simply something he listened to—it was woven into the fabric of who he was. Like his paintings, it was another language through which he expressed himself.

His mind was sharp and analytical. Numbers came naturally to him, and he had an extraordinary understanding of the stock market. He could spot patterns and opportunities where others saw only confusion. Yet for all his intelligence, he never lost appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures: tending a garden, especially his beloved sunflowers, spending time outdoors, sharing music, enjoying his fantastic cooking, especially his lasagna, and sitting with the small circle of lifelong friends who knew and loved him best.

Rick was real. In an increasingly complicated world, he remained refreshingly straightforward. He had a limited tolerance for nonsense and pretense and little patience for anything that wasn’t genuine. He was witty, had a great sense of humor, and loved animals, especially the family dog, Tommy. He spoke honestly, loved fiercely, and stayed true to his values and the people he cared about. Those who knew him knew exactly where they stood, and there was comfort and trust in that.

Above all, Rick’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of more than fifty years, Chris Fucci, whose enduring partnership was the foundation of his life; his daughter, Haley Fucci, who inherited his strength and spirit; and his grandson, Liam, who brought him immense joy and represented the continuation of the family he cherished.

Rick’s life was not defined by titles, wealth, or accolades, though he earned plenty of admiration along the way. It was defined by authenticity. He lived on his own terms, loved deeply, laughed freely, and never pretended to be anyone other than himself.

The mountains, the water, the music, the gardens, and the stories shared among family and old friends will all carry traces of him. Those fortunate enough to have known Richard Armand Fucci will remember a man of strength, talent, honesty, and heart—a man who lived boldly, loved loyally, and left an enduring mark on everyone he touched.

In leu of flowers, we invite those to support Rick’s “Legacy of Love” fund instead. Your support will help carry forward “Poppa Rick’s” deepest hope: that his grandson, Liam, is uplifted and given every chance to thrive and experience the very personal things he wanted for him. Your generosity becomes part of his legacy—one built on love, family, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to live fully, bravely, and joyfully despite the absence of those dearest to us.

“Legacy of Love” Donations: http://spot.fund/56664v5sc