REV. RICHARD J. STANLEY

I knew Father Richard from the Weston School of Theology in Cambridge; years later we reunited at his home Parish Blessed Sacrament Church for a funeral of his family. As we walked the aisle of the Church in the round, Dick told me how his grandmother influenced him by walking the stations of the Cross at Blessed Sacrament in Holyoke. Dick inspired my own interest in monasteries! I remember his gentleness and simplicity

Richard, I have enjoyed many memories with you. knowing that the path your entering now will be filled with peace and happiness, giving you the love and understanding that you gave to us.

I had the privilege of knowing Fr. Stanley when I was student at Fairfield University. I was lucky enough to travel with him to Tijuana, Mexico in the summer of 1996. To say he had a profound impact on me and my peers would be an understatement. I am so grateful for that time in my life and Fr. Stanley. A finer human, or a funnier human, you will never find. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

When God created Dick God threw away the mold! He was unique. He was the director when I first came to Eastern Point in the late 70´s. His musical choices stood out as reminders of gifted retreat days to be hummed throughout the year.

My wonderful memories of Father Dick go back to 1982, when I did my first retreat with Sr. Isabell in the House of Prayer. Joe McHugh, in the newsletter, captured my sentiments exactly. For those who missed it: "Dick was an amazing blend of reverence, silliness, and sanctity. His passing is a great loss to us all." And, of course, a marvelous mystic, poet, and musician! R.I.P.

Since 1960 I have known this gentle soul. His well only got deeper, his blue-eyed simplicity lighter. Whatever grace he was given he shared with you in word, song, or quiet, gentle presence freely, enlarging even as he gave you his all.

Fr Stanley was truly a holy man...clothed in complete humility. I looked so forward to sitting with him at sober men´s retreats at Eastern Point. It was always a calming time...he listened and I listened. Rest in Peace Father

Dearest Richard. Thank you for the generous gifts of your playfulness, kindness and childlike spirit. You were present at my first retreat experience at Gonzaga in the mid-1980s, which has continued to serve as the light and blessing of my spiritual journey. I think often of you. I send you much affection and blessings. Have a beautiful journey home. David C. Weiss, Ph.D.

How much I loved and was blessed by his music during the many years I traveled from Tennessee to Gonzaga!!! I always went early to the worship room so as to hear and enjoy him rehearsing! Kathryn Mitchem