Punta Gorda, FL – Richard B. Brooks, a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his family, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 29, 2023 in Punta Gorda, Florida. He was 89 years old.
Richard was born in Ware, Massachusetts, the son to Herbert and Mae (Perrin) Brooks. He had spent most of his younger years in N. Brookfield and Northborough. Shortly after high school Richard enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served his country during the Korean War.
Upon his honorable discharge he returned to Northborough, a town he would call home for most of his life. It was here Richard met the love of his life, Audrey Blakeley. The young couple were soon married, embarking upon a wonderful 58 year journey together until separated by Audrey’s own death in 2013.
For many years Richard worked in the men’s clothing manufacturing industry with his last major position being that of a departmental vice president at Calvin Clothing Company. After retirement, Richard and Audrey moved to Cape Cod where they lived year-round in Dennis. After several years they returned to Northborough. After Audrey’s passing Richard relocated to S. Kingstown, Rhode Island to be closer to his daughter and family. In early 2023 Richard relocated a final time to Punta Gorda, Florida so he could be closer to his son and family.
Richard was an avid golfer and a dedicated fan of the Patriots. He knew his way around the kitchen and proudly shared his cooking skills and suggestions with family members. He was a fan of NCIS and old Western movies; one or the other could be found playing on his TV at any time.
To his family, Richard was a wonderful Dad and Grampy. He will be missed by his two children, Cheryl Disanto and her husband Robert of S. Kingstown, RI and Richard Brooks and his wife Debra of Punta Gorda, FL; his three grandchildren, Kerri Defond and husband Jared, Cory Macwhorter and Derek Brooks and his two great grandsons, Cole and Chase Defond.
Following a private service with Military Honors, Richard will be privately laid to rest beside his beloved Audrey in Howard Street Cemetery, Northborough. There are no public services planned.
Richard’s family suggests in lieu of flowers that donations be made to Northborough Food Pantry, 37 Pierce Rd, Northborough, MA 01532 or any other organization of your choice.
Services are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA. To leave an online condolence or to share a memory, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.
