Richard M. "Dick" Vail Sr.

1941 - 2022

Jan. 30, 1941- Jan. 15, 2022

Billerica

Richard "Dick" M. Vail, Sr., of Billerica, MA, passed away peacefully on January 15 surrounded by his family, shortly before his 81st birthday, after a period of declining health.

Dick was the beloved husband of Sally Bradford Vail for 58 years and the loving father of David Vail (Julie O'Neill) of Milton, MA, and daughter Lyn Vail (Martin Smith) of Hampton, NH. He was predeceased by son Richard M Vail, Jr. (Susan Gearty) of Norwood, MA on Jan 2, 2022.

He adored his grandchildren - Jennifer Xavier and fiancée Mackenzie Griffin of Winsted, CT; James Xavier of Chelmsford, MA; Michael Xavier of New York, NY; Jake Vail and fiancée Michaela Purdy of Arlington, VA; Sarah Vail of Norwood, MA; Claire O'Neill of Houston, TX; and Mae O'Neill of Milton, MA. He is survived by his brother Phillip Vail of Scarborough, ME; sister Carolyn Vail (Donna Gagne) of Scarborough, ME; and brother Frank Vail of Hollis, ME.

Dick was a kind and loving man who treasured his family and friends. His Christian faith was also extremely important to him and for many years he was a dedicated member of Carlisle Congregational Church in Carlisle, MA, and in later years at Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA. Growing up in southern Maine, he loved playing baseball and basketball, and for 30 years camped with family on Lake Bunganut in Lyman, ME, where he enjoyed boating, cookouts, campfires, and the beauty of the lake. In later years, he and Sally enjoyed their home in Fort Myers, FL, as snowbirds. Whether catching a Red Sox Spring Training game in Florida or watching Patriots Football games with his family, he was an avid New England sports fan.

Dick served in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964, and met his wife, Sally, while stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany. During his working years as a route salesman, he was known for being dedicated to his customers.

Dick's family is grateful for the love and support shown these last months. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to Hope International, 227 Granite Run Drive, Suite 250, Lancaster, PA 17601.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, January 23, 3pm, at Carlisle Congregational Church, 147 School St., Carlisle, MA, 01741. Masks are required. Arrangements under the care of the SWEENEY MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, Billerica www.sweeneymemorialfh.com



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