Richard E. Sweeney

July 18, 1948 - March 01, 2025

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Obituary for Richard E. Sweeney

Richard Sweeney, a beloved teacher, coach, administrator, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones after a battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was 76 years old.

Richard worked in the Randolph Public Schools for his entire career both as a teacher and an administrator. He cherished the relationships he had with his coworkers and students.

Born to a family with a rich history of involvement in sports, Richard’s love for the game started early. His father was one of the founders Milton Youth Hockey, and Richard carried on the legacy, playing for Milton High and Boston State. Whether on the ice, at a baseball diamond, or cheering from the sidelines, Richard was always a passionate and supportive presence in the lives of his children. He coached his son Dan’s baseball and hockey teams and his daughter Kate’s softball team, always proud of their accomplishments. He never missed a game, be it Dan’s college baseball or Kate’s college hockey, offering unwavering support to both of his children.

A lifelong athlete, Richard took immense pride in participating in the Falmouth Road Race each year with his dear friend, John Gillen, showing his dedication to fitness and his relentless spirit. His determination was a hallmark of his character. He was the hardest working person you’d ever meet, whether in his role as an educator with 10 certifications and 3 advanced degrees or when writing grants for the town of Randolph to support the local schools, police, and fire departments. His "secret weapon" in these efforts was always his wife, who offered her editing skills and love for the work.

Above all, Richard was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Patricia, the love of his life, whom he cherished every single day. He never missed an opportunity to tell her how much he loved her. Their bond was deep and unwavering, a true testament to a love that lasted a lifetime.

Richard was a proud and fiercely dedicated father to Dan Sweeney and Kate Sweeney Regan. He adored his grandchildren—Madelyn, Julia, Danny, and Conor—taking great joy in watching them develop their own athletic skills. He loved playing with them, laughing with them, and sharing in their lives until the very end.

Richard always felt like he “hit a home-run” when it came to his children’s spouses. He loved Emily and Mike like his own children, and he put them to work just like his own. He was so impressed by how smart, hardworking, and dedicated they were, and he was proud to have them as part of his family.

Richard also deeply loved his brother Bob, his wife Gert, and their daughter Christina. He was proud to see Christina follow in the footsteps of his daughter Kate, playing sports and heading off to Colby College. He often reminisced about the joy he took in watching her play, knowing the important role sports had had in his family’s life. He also leaves behind his brother Daniel Sweeney, and his sister Maryellen Dumais (niece Danielle and nephew Bradley Dumais). He is preceded by his loving mother Gertrude Sweeney, father Daniel Sweeney and brother James Sweeney.

A man of tremendous strength, dedication, and love, Richard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, compassion, and the enduring love of family.

Rest in peace, Dick. You will never be forgotten.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Milton Youth Hockey ~ www.miltonyouthhockey.org/donate
and/or to Tunnel to Towers Foundation ~ www.t2t.org/donate

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Condolences

  • March 07, 2025

    Virginia Wahlgren

    To the Sweeney family and the Dumais family My condolences. A long time connection to Cunningham Park. Sincerely Ginny Wahlgren

  • March 06, 2025

    Chris W.

    I had Mr. Sweeney as a gym teacher at Lyons School and also at Randolph High School back in the 90s! He came up in conversation during a 1:1 with my boss today, and I decided to Google him. This was not the page I was expecting. Saddened to hear of your passing, Mr. Sweeney. You will be missed.

  • March 05, 2025

    Marion Kade

    One of Dick's many roles in RPS was as adaptive PhysEd teacher. That year I had a special needs student who was selectively mute. Dick worked over and above to help that student feel comfortable in school. Dick looked forward to that challenge and was a positive influence to helping that student lessen his anxiety. His dedication to his profession was remarkable! He will always be in the hearts of those he touched,

  • March 04, 2025

    Peter Collins

    Everyone loved Dickie, A great friend, mentor and neighbor. Always putting others before himself. He used to say, "Some people do and some people do not. I choose to do." Then he would snowblow half the houses in the neighborhood. We played hockey together for almost 30 years. He had a great hands around the net. A pure goal scorer. Rest in peace my friend.❤️ Peter Collins

  • March 04, 2025

    Lorraine Tower

    I will always have deep respect for Dick. He was so compassionate and such a professional. Our years as teachers in Randolph were enriched by all his tireless work. My condolences to all his family and close friends. Lorraine Tower, retired Spanish Teacher

  • March 04, 2025

    Sharon O’Connell

    Dick was always there to help everyone! When I came on board in the RPS as a younger teacher in 1980 Dick offered advice on how to "save for the future" and I am so thankful he looked out for his fellow coworkers! He was a team player and stood up for what was right ! I am saddened to hear of his passing.

  • March 04, 2025

    Brendan Riordon

    As a friend and coworker at RHS, Dick and I shared many great memories and experiences. As Health Coordinator he was always very supportive of my role of social worker. Our conference trips to Newport were a good relief from the day to day routine. Running road races together were also a highlight. Although I haven't seen him recently, he will be remembered very fondly and missed. So long old friend, Brendan Riordon

  • March 04, 2025

    Eileen O'Connell

    We will miss Richard's stories of his much younger adventures in Nantucket and the post Thanksgiving Family Bowling challenges. He was always smiling and ready to have a good time. Love to all. Eileen &Donn

  • March 03, 2025

    David &mary Finnerty

    Our most sincere condolences to all Sweeney and Reagan Families our prayers and thoughts are with at this sad time Finnerty family Milton

  • March 03, 2025

    Mike

    Dick was the biggest supporter of his kids, literally attended every (thousands) sporting event. I can remember the day I asked him permission to marry his daughter over a Bud Light at Darcys. His response was, "did you ask her, that's all that matters." He was 100% dedicated to his kids and Tricia. I still like to think he had a wild streak back when he was driving corvettes, motorcycles and mustangs.....

  • March 02, 2025

    Dan T

    I had Mr. Sweeney as my PhyEd Teacher at Lyons School then also in Randolph High. I'll always remember Mr. Sweeney as kind and also fun to learn PhyEd from. Not sure what brought me to look him up but was sad to learn of his passing. Dan T. RHS Class of 2001