Richard D. Lawler Sr.

1944 - 2025

Richard D Lawler Sr., born January 21, 1944, passed away surrounded by his loving family on October 24, 2025, after a courageous fight with Prostate Cancer.

Richard was born in Pittsfield to Thomas L Lawler and Marjorie G Lawler and lived in Pittsfield throughout his life until moving to Lanesborough in 1987. He is a graduate of Pittsfield High School and employed by the City of Pittsfield as a dispatcher for more than 30 years, during which he received awards for his life-saving measures to families and children.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy Brown Lawler, who he married on June 28, 1996. Over the years, they drove countless miles on their daily rides looking for adventure, and building beautiful memories together. They were each other's constant companion and best friend. Her devotion to him throughout his illness was immeasurable and one that eased his pain and gave him great comfort.

Richard is also survived by his loving children Kristen Myers (Eric) of Lanesborough, Richard D. Lawler Jr. of Richmond (Lisa), Mary Beth Lawler (Scott) of Dalton, Thomas Lawler of Pittsfield and his step-daughters, Cheryl Callahan of Windsor, and Kelly Mickle (Andy) of Lenox. He leaves behind by his grandchildren Eva and Charlie Myers, Conner and Reagan Lawler, Shawn Hopkins, Hayley Casella, Hannah Lawler Marley Makes, and Paige and Brady Mickle. Richard is survived by his brother, Thomas Lawler of Los Angeles California, Patricia Cole, his nieces Jackie and Patricia Cole of Pittsfield. His death was preceded by his brother David Lawler of Coxsackie, NY. He spent many years making memories with his sister-in-law Denise Herene of Pittsfield and her partner Bill WIlson who passed away in 2024.

Richard was a self-made handy man who rebuilt a small cottage in Lanesborough to create a home for his family. He enjoyed learning about genealogy, going for drives, puttering around on his computer, and scouring flea-markets. Richard was a traditionalist, always looking to impart his wisdom on his family and friends, share his family's history, and looked forward to family recipes and gatherings with his children and step-family. One of the greatest loves of his life were his dogs, and grand-dogs, who always managed to put a huge smile on face.

Funeral Service:

Funeral services for Richard will be Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 4pm at the Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home in Pittsfield, 220 East St, Pittsfield MA 01201.

Calling hours at the funeral home will be directly prior to the service, from 2pm to 4pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to No Paws Left Behind, a rescue shelter in North Adams, at nopawsleftbehindas.org.

Please visit www.dwyerfuneral.com to leave condolences and remembrances.