Richard Joseph Perry Jr.

Richard Joseph Perry Jr., 76, of Worcester, died Saturday, April 5, 2025 at his home.

Joe leaves two daughters, Melinda Mae Martin, and Marlene M. Zannotti and her husband Chad, all of Worcester; four grandchildren, Sesame Martin, Chad Zannotti Jr., and Vincent and Mazzy Zannotti; his siblings, Paula Perry-Smith of Auburn, Ralph H. Perry and his wife Donna of Holden, Michael P. Perry of Worcester, John A. Perry and his wife Tandrea of Grafton, and David F. Perry of Auburn; his former wife, Stacia Perry of West Boylston; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins and aunts.

Joe was predeceased by his brothers Dennis R. and William J. Perry.

He was born in Worcester, son of Richard J. and Judith A. (Ryan) Perry. He attended South High School.

Joe served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

Joe had a long career with the Smith Valve Co. He moved from the Worcester area to Texas with the company and worked many years there as a warehouse manager.  He enjoyed going to work each day, so much that he knew the days he had missed in his career.  He returned to Worcester in 2001.   

Joe loved to fish, play cards, go out to eat and mini golf. He especially loved any event with his grandkids. His presence will be missed in the day-to-day activities he cherished doing so much with his grandchildren. Whether it was picking them up from school, buying them a burger, watching them do what they love, playing games, being at the beach or just talking on the phone. All the while creating the funny, loving sarcasm that made his family and friends laugh.  

Calling hours are Monday, April 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Clara Barton Center for Diabetes Education, P.O. Box 356, North Oxford, MA 01537 (www.bartoncenter.org); or Special Olympics, 512 Forest St., Marlborough, MA 01752 (www.specialolympicsma.org)