Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Richard E. Joyce

Richard Joyce Obituary

Richard E. Dick Joyce
     CARY, N.C. -- Richard E. Dick Joyce of Cary, N.C., died on Jan. 23, 2007, at Wake Medical Center in Raleigh, N.C. The son of Joseph Jabber Joyce and Alice Nevers Rich, Dick was born in Portland on Nov. 18, 1943. He began his baseball career as a pitcher in Portland's Little League where his father, a pitching legend in his own right, was his first coach. He gained local and national recognition pitching for the Andrews Post Junior Legion and Cheverus High School where he was also an outstanding basketball player. Dick went on to earn a BA degree in English from Holy Cross College, graduating cum laude in the class of 1965.
     The Sept. 15, 1961 issue of Time magazine highlighted Dick's surprising decision to turn down a six-figure bonus offer from the Boston Red Sox, choosing instead to accept a full academic scholarship to Holy Cross College where in 1963 he pitched in the College World Series in Omaha. In 1964 he was a member of the United States Baseball Federation team that toured Japan during the Tokyo Summer Olympics.
     In December 1964, Dick signed a contract with the Kansas City A's where his teammates included Sal Bando, Reggie Jackson, Rollie Fingers, Catfish Hunter and the fabled Satchel Paige.
     He had been inducted into the Maine Baseball Hall of Fame, Cheverus Hall of Fame and Holy Cross Hall of Fame.
     Dick married his seventh-grade sweetheart, Jeanne K. Walp, in 1968. After a 36-year career with IBM, he retired in August 2006.
     He is survived by his loving wife Jeannie of Cary, N.C.; daughter Danielle of Apex, N.C.; sons Tyler and his wife Jennifer of Pennington, N.J., and Brandon of Brooklyn, N.Y.; grandchildren Kiara, Dylan and Maya; sister Patricia A. Crafts and her husband Stephen of Cape Elizabeth, and their children Cpt. Geoffrey Crafts of Harrogate, England, Stephanie of Cape Elizabeth and Jonathan of Portsmouth, N.H.; sister-in-law Constance Walp Coyne of Newfane, Vt., and her children Andrew of Jamaica, Vt. and MJ of
    Williamsville, Vt.; aunts Maxine Blake of Elkton, Md. and Marguerite Joyce Donohue of Hingham, Mass.; and several beloved cousins. In addition, Dick leaves a host of friends, classmates, former teammates and business colleagues, all of whom were dear to him.
     Jeannie and the entire family wish to thank the hundreds of people who have so generously given their love, prayers and support during the past several years.
     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007, at St. Pius X Church on Ocean Avenue in Portland. All are welcomed to attend a reception at the Cheverus High School Residence following the service.
     In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to:
    Cheverus High School
    Capital Campaign
     267 Ocean Avenue
    Portland, Maine 04103
    or
    Holy Cross Fund
     Holy Cross College
     One College St.
    Worcester, Massachusetts 01601
     Arrangements by Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland.
     Richard E. Dick Joyce
    172 State Street, Portland, Maine 04101
    1024 Broadway, South Portland, Maine 04106
    (207) 773-6511 Fax (207) 773-9622
    INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & FAMILY OPERATED

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram on Feb. 7, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Joyce

Sponsored by The Walp Family.

60 Entries

February 1, 2020

Think of you from time to time. I Like to brag about what a cool humorous Uncle you were, not to mention all of your accomplishments including the beautiful family you have. We so miss our Moms sister and our Aunt Jeanne. To my Cousins, I hope you and yours are doing well. Love from Jamaica Vermont. Andrew Coyne

Jeanne Joyce

January 23, 2012

Come back....

Jeannie Joyce

December 25, 2011

Merry Christmas!!! Still missing you! Danielle and I had a lovely evening last night. Indulged in a little "lobstah", opened gifts and had a few good laughs. Today we are going to have Chinese....it's just such a waste to cook a big meal for just the two of us. Noticed you've dropped by a few times lately and I love it!!! Your chair gets a lot of hugs! I felt you downstairs one evening and even said aloud, "Dickie! What are you doing down here?" Good thing no one can hear me....I would quickly be spirited away to the loony bin!
Love and miss you, Dickie Joyce! Keep being my guardian angel.......Jeannie

December 20, 2011

It's not the same without you. Miss you always. Love Connie and Andrew

November 21, 2011

Jeanne and Family,
I often think of Dick and wish you all well; he would have been proud of the recent accomplishments of the Cheverus football team and the honorable and mature way they represented the Cheverus family before the state.

John Kerry,
Saco, Maine

Jeanne Joyce

November 18, 2011

Missing me? STILL missing you! Happy birthday! Just think, I met you a mere 12 years after this date! Long, long time ago! So happy that you haven't left me in spirit! That way I can talk to you in the comfort of our own home instead of writing in your journal. You certainly have been my guardian angel these last few months, and how on earth did you manage to give me Communion just before my surgery in July? The entire staff at Wake Med denied that it happened, but I know they believed it did. I'm sure they witness miracles in the Critical Care Unit all the time. At any rate, I thank you for being there for me. I swear I was about to join all of you but I guess you all thought it wasn't quite my time. I don't feel it's necessary to tell you any news about your daughter and your sons----you are watching them as well. I just wish you were here to hug them and your grands! I miss you, Dick Joyce. Keep staying with me. I love you now and always, Jeannie

Jeanne Joyce

April 24, 2011

Missing me? Missing you! Have loved it that you have been around so much in the last few months! Hope you feel my hugs around the back of your chair! Don't know if it was you or Nana hanging around me all afternoon a few days ago in the form of a full grown monach butterfly, but I talked with both of you and it made me smile! Happy Easter, my love. Forever, Jeannie

April 23, 2011

Dear Dickie, you are missed my friend. Love Connie.

Jeanne Joyce

January 25, 2011

Hi, love! I already loved you at Christmas...you listened and took my words into your heart. You were with me on New Years Eve and I thank you for that. Sunday was the 4th anniversary of your death and I still have not accepted the fact that you are really and truly gone from my life after over 50 years of you being in it. I had a terrible time during the weeks before the 23rd remembering how horribly sick you were, how upset your children, sister, and all of those that love you were knowing the end was near. I try very hard to realize and accept that you are at peace and suffer no longer, but that little denial (and selfishness, I guess) sneaks in and practically destroys me! Thanks to you, I am well, have been cleared with all doctors on my one year anniversary of the breat cancer diagnosis, am keeping myself busy keeping up and improving this big empty house, cheering our kids on in all their endeavors, etc. I certainly have my share of "down days", but I guess those will never go away. How could they when I think of all the memories we shared? Missing you, are you missing me? Forever, Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

November 18, 2010

Happy birthday, my Dickie!!! Been thinking about you all day....can't get you off my mind! We all miss you so very much and, as strange as it may seem, so many people have remembered that it's your birthday (meaning those outside the family)! Another strange thing, Brandon sent me an email regarding some guy on Ebay selling photos of you when you played for the A's! These are shots I have never seen! Wonder who he is? I should put some picture on there...like the USA team in the '64 Olympics! Another money making scheme! Anyway, just wanted you to know that I love you and always will. Oh, by the way, Connie sends a "Happy Birthday, my Dickie"! I promised I would pass that on to you. (Wish that girl would get a computer! It will NEVER happen!) Give huge hugs to Nana, Bubby, Jeannie, Marty, Nana Beverly, Jabber, John.....geez, the list goes on and on! No wonder I feel so alone! Steve's mother, Verona, is the newest arrival. Welcome her with open arms. Again, I love you.....missing you...missing me? Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

November 9, 2010

Happy 42nd anniversary, my love! We are newly married right this minute 42 years ago! That's when the "missing you....missing me?" originated when we were talking about "what ifs" on the flight to St. Thomas! So many, many years ago! What a wonderful life we had together! How lucky and blessed we were! Those memories sustain me...they truly do. I'm so glad you have been around me so much! I know exactly when you are here and why. I appreciate your constant care, Dick. I give you hugs and hope that you can feel them. I somehow know you can. Wish Chet and Gero a happy 32nd right after your birthday, won't you! Don't forget! And go see Geri for her birthday the day after yours! (Still bossing you around, huh?) I love you, Dick Joyce and....I'm missing you...are you missing me? All my love, Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

December 24, 2009

Merry Christmas, my love! Missin' me still? Me, too! This year is especially difficult. You should be here, darn it all! Danielle and I had dinner together here tonight and exchanged gifts. We then opened tons of gifts from our dear friend Dana and Crista even sent us some! That certainly brightened our spirits as much as they could be brightened! The boys called and they both sound like they are having a wonderful Christmas. Tyler got a new kitten for the kids (and Jen). He sent me pictures via email and it (they are still not sure if it is a boy or girl) looks eerily like Icky! Hope the personality isn't the same! Kiki is with Bran tonight and leaves tomorrow for a vacation with her Mom in Florida tomorrow....so an early morning rise for Brandon to bring her to Brooklyn! Since my oven is broken, Danielle and I are going out for Chinese tomorrow! Can you stand it? We sound like the Griswalds! Your sister, meanwhile, had an appendectomy the other night! What's with that? She's 60, for goodness sake! She's absolutely fine, however, and was sent home the next a.m. and able to do whatever her body says is okay. Geoffrey is there with them for Christmas and for a few more days after. So happy for all of them to be together and for Geoff to be home in the warmth of his family. I think that is all the news, except that Debbie and Jim continue to enjoy living in Virginia, despite the cold we have had lately! Still beats that REAL cold in Maine. Everyone still thinks of you, Dick. You truly will never be forgotten by anyone that met you. Give my love to all my loves. Always yours, Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

December 3, 2009

Missin'me? Still missin' you! Hope you were there to greet my beloved uncle, Billy Walp! Just the thought of him being there with all of you makes me smile....and then actually laugh! I had so many, many insane laughs with that man! He died just yesterday afternoon and apparently it was a peaceful death. According to his family it was also a blessing. Knowing my uncle, he would want it to be this way.....just as all of you that have left us would want....except, of course, our little Jeannie.

By the way, happy Thanksgiving! What did you all have? Or do you have to eat in the afterlife? I spent a quiet one with Danielle. Our granddog is recovering from a tendon replacement in her knee so we had to watch her closely. She's doing beautifully and is having the 20 staples removed even as we speak. Lots of therapy to follow....which Danielle can do herself...and then she should be just fine. No more pain, no more limping, etc.

I love you, Dickie Joyce and in my recent decrapping of the house, I have found so many notes from you telling me just how much you love me too. I even found the one that was attatched to a flower arrangement that said "Welcome to my house and life". Wow! That was over 40 years ago! Who knew cleaning out drawers would bring you to tears? Good job, guy!

Anyway, thank you for sticking around because I still need you. Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

November 18, 2009

Missin' me? Missin' you! Happy birthday dear Dickie! I'm so sorry you have been busy greeting so many of our friends in the past few months! Geri's Chet just a couple of weeks ago and now Jed Newman. Seems like waaay too many too soon, but I guess your Boss knows what he's doing!

Went to Jonathan's wedding last weekend and it was absolutely wonderful! Your sister looked like a dream, by the way! Jonathan's wife, Allysa is as lovely as we knew she would be---they are very well suited and very much in love. Our boys and wives were able to attend and that made Jon very happy. Geoffrey also was able to make it...thank God...and it was great seeing and hugging him. He will be stateside for at least a year this time, much to the relief of all of us! Stephanie was a knockout, as usual. They all missed you terribly, Dick. Of course, we could feel your presence.....was that you tossing silverware around? And why did the photographer tell us all to say "Dickie" for the family photo? Hmmmm...I wonder.

Paxi sitting on your lap? I miss her terribly....especially when I come home from a trip. She was always there to greet me. Now the house is totally empty. Dana had to put Petunia to sleep last month as well. Another pet news flash: our granddog Bandit is having a knee replacement done in two days. Since Danielle and I are not allowed to be with her, make sure you are there to hold her paw, okay?

Thank you for watching over me, Dear Dickie. Don't think I don't notice the close calls I have had! I do and love it that you are here watching out for me!

Give everyone my love and let them know they will never be forgotten. You will all live in my heart forever. I love you, Jeannie

Jeanne Joyce

August 30, 2009

Hi, Dickie! Missin' you, are you missin' me? It's been months since I have had to write because you always seem to be by my side. However, where have ya been lately? Miss you. Come back. Our kids are fine, as are the grands; but of course, you know all that. Do you have our Paxi sitting on your right leg now? Miss her so much after 18 years of having that birthday gift from Brandon in my life! I needed that like a hole in the head, but look how much joy she brought us all. I still cannot believe you are gone, Dickie Joyce!!!! Love you forever.....Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

May 10, 2009

Missing you, are you missing me? Dickie! Did you remember to wish your mother a happy mothers day??? Don't forget! Thanks for being here the other day when I needed your presence! Nice one-sided conversation we had! Danielle and I were booked to go to Dylan's First Communion last weekend (5-2-09) but Danielle got very ill and had to cancel. I tried to go, but my flight kept getting delayed and I had to give up and come home. I gave Dylan your beautiful bible in the leather case. I wrote in it that it was yours and you would have liked him to have it. As Tyler said, he would love anything from Dabu!!! I am leaving for my usual May visit to NJ on the 13th and will stay two weeks. Kiki and I plan to celebrate our birthdays together on the 23rd. I haven't seen her for many months and will let you know how shocked I will be! Such a gorgeous and kind young lady! Danielle is working this Mothers Day, so we plan to celebrate tomorrow. See? I still need you here to make this day special for me! All alone. Poor, poor me! (hint, hint....another visit, please!) I love you, Dickie Joyce. Spread that love of mine to everyone up there and a special hug to the newcomer, John Kenniff. Forever, Jeannie

Geri & Chet Jackman

January 28, 2009

Hi Dick,
We can't believe another year has gone by. Not a day goes by that we don't think of you.
Chet's hair is still growing in where it was once bald. He still swears it's due to the Cheverus hat that Tiffany got for him. But I have to get a new one - the old one has gotten so dirty I can't clean it anymore!
We are freezing in MA. Hope to travel south again in a few months and visit Jeanne.

All our love,
Geri & Chet

Jeannie Joyce

January 23, 2009

Missing you....are you missing me? I cannot believe that you have been gone for two entire years! Seems like forever and then again like yesterday! My sadness is still as strong as ever, except when you make your little "appearances" around the house! Those always make me happy, so keep them up! I have talked to Tyler and Patty today thus far regarding this anniversary. Your sister is doing fine and all her thoughts and sadness have been occuring since the beginning of January, but not today. That's the way it happened to me. I've decided that in your undying kindness you are calming our hearts and spirits today and I thank you for that! Tyler had the same happen to him. He said that he has been teary daily for the last two weeks at gym and just believes you are letting him know how proud you are of him for taking such good care of himself; yet today he thought of only me and how I was doing. Your kids miss you a great deal, my love, and you have left a huge and empty hole in our lives But we won't forget that while you were here you filled our lives with joy and love. That will never be forgotten, but don't leave us without those visitations! We all enjoy those......especially me! I can see you still have your inane sense of humor and I know you know what I mean! I love you, Dick Joyce. Remain in my heart and keep me in your soul. Jeannie

PS You will forgive me for beginning one of the above sentences with a "but", right? Picky, picky English Major! I'm sure there are a lot more errors in this, but you have to appreciate the sentiment at least!

Jeanne Joyce

December 24, 2008

Merry Christmas! Missin' you....missin' me? Danielle and I are staying home this year. It will be our very first without you and I'm afraid we are not doing too well with it! We'll try.....it's still early. Don't know if we can put the candles on the street---rain is in the forecast. Up North is in a real mess so thank God (or all of you watching over us) we did not make plans to go up!

Danielle ordered our traditional lobsters for Christmas Eve dinner. Your "favorite sister-in-law" sends her undying love. She is having them all at her house tonight. By the way, Grace and Andrew finally were wed on the beach at Camp Ellis, Maine. Taber was their ring bearer and did a fine job! MJ's little Abigail is absolutely a riot and looks so very much like Jeannie! Wish you could have met her! I can just see her puting her hand in your wide-opened mouth like Jeannie used to do!

Brandon and Tania will be celebrating their first Christmas together. To add to the joy, Kiara will be with them! Tyler and Jen invited us to their house and if it weren't for the weather, we could have perhaps had a real family Christmas! I still know enough to count my blessings, though, and I have plenty to count. Our Danielle continues to be my crutch whenever I need one. She and the boys miss you so much. It makes my heart soar when I hear them talk about you. We did a good job, you and I. I can see we raised absolutely wonderful children---even though I did most of the work!!! (I'll never let you live THAT down!)

Try to be with us tomorrow. We would love it just as we love you! Goodnight, my love, Jeannie

Jeanne K. Joyce

December 18, 2008

Hi, love! Can you believe it has been this long since I have put a few words in your guest book? Me with the big mouth? You know the reason.....you have been with me in this house and elsewhere all along. I was concerned when you seemed to be elsewhere, but back you came and I am grateful! I'm so happy that you came back to help our friend John Kenniff. He and Murph need you badly and I am sure you know what to do! Our son, Brandon, is happily married to a gorgeous, intelligent, giving and caring woman! You would absolutely adore her! We all know you were at their wedding. You made yourself present in a cloud right in front of them at sunset as they were taking their vows and you held off the rain until right before the reception ended.....allowing everyone to dance in that rain with wild abandon! I love and miss you, dear Dickie. Missin' me? I'm missin' you.

Jeannie Joyce

August 12, 2008

Hi ya, Dickie....Missin' you...missin' me? Have been busy finally taking care of myself....physicals, bloodwork, etc. Just got back from a trip to NJ and VT. Had a chance to drive up to Maine to finally see our stone! It's gorgeous, as you probably know, and the solid bronze roses are absolutely a work of art! They certainly were worth waiting for! Got a chance, too, to have dinner at Patty and Steve's. Such a lovely and loving time! Geoff was there---first time home in three years! It was wonderful to see and hug him! Such a terrific kid! Our lovely Stephanie was there as well. Another joy to be around! Betsy also came so it was a real family affair. Connie thoroughly enjoyed it as she always does. She loves our family. Your daughter is doing well and is about to start classes again. Not much more to go before she gets her teaching degree! The boys are fine as well. Brandon and Kiki were down last month. Brandon stayed for a week and Kiki stayed on with us for another week!!!! You would have loved it! I flew back with her and then stayed at Dana's for one week and Connie's the next. Helped Brandon and Tania with wedding invitations.....they turned out pretty! They are sending very few. After many hours of work, I was glad they are! Must run, dear one. Where have you been, by the way? You don't seem to be around as much as you used to! I miss you! Come back more often! Forever love, Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

May 11, 2008

Hi, dear one! Just wanted you to know that Mothers Day is just not the same without you! (What does THAT mean?) You always made it so special for me, even though I totally ignored Fathers Day for you! ("Why should I? You're not my father!) I miss you terribly, Dickie, and hope that you are giving your mother the day she deserves. All of you stay beside me forever. I will always need your presence. (And thank you for still showing up here when I need you! Don't ever stop doing that!) Your forever love, Jeannie

Missin' me? I'm missin' you!

Chet & Geri Jackman

April 8, 2008

We both miss Dick terribly, but also feel his presence on quiet evenings at home, when the grandkids aren't around, washer and dishwasher aren't running, and the TV is off and we're just listening to CDs.

I (Chet) started losing my hair many years ago. But my barber insists that it is coming back. This started after our daughter Tiffany bought a Cheverus H. S. hat for me. The more I wear it, the more it grows back. Most people think I'm foolish, but I'd like to think not!

You are missed by all of us Dick.

All our love,
Geri & Chet

Jeannie Joyce

April 4, 2008

Hi, Dickie! Just a little reminder that today is the day your favorite mother-in-law joined you in heaven! And a reminder, too, that her birthday is the 9th! Just want to keep you up to date on these things just in case you have remained your forgetful self! Thank you for all the visits you have bestowed on me and for quiding me in all that I do. I guess you meant it when you said you have always loved me and always will. I am doing fine but miss our laughs. our silly tears over a movie, story or those darn Hallmark ads! Missin' you....are you missin' me? Your forever love, Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

January 23, 2008

Dearest one, Today marks the first year of your passing. Everyone I have spoken with expressed the "missing piece" of their heart that you have left behind. Your children miss you dearly but feel blessed that you are no longer suffering. We all miss you, Dickie. Today I heard from Marie Roccoforte and she expressed how much your "movie date" misses you, as does she. Michael and Candy Poore sent a beautiful bouquet of flowers that you have gone ga-ga over! Debbie and Jim sent a lovely card, your sister and I had a wonderful talk, my sister and I shared many memories, Danielle and the boys, etc., etc., etc. And, of coure, our buddy Dana who is always there for me. You make sure God sends her something extra special from the both of us, okay? So many, many thoughts of love still come your way and mine.

Don't ever leave this house, Dick Joyce! You seem to have gotten a little busy up there....either that or I am not paying quite the attention I should be! I have to go to bed now....it's been a long day and a draining one emotionally. Come with me and wrap me in your arms. Missin' you....are you missin' me?

Jacquelyn Blake

January 3, 2008

Dear Jeannie,

I was just unpacking my dining room boxes and found the lovely crystal pony glasses (from Stowell's) that you and Richard gave Fred and me for our wedding. I still love them so much. There are many wonderful memories of Richard. One of my favorites was when Fred's Mom, Maxine was about to celebrate her 80th birthday. We were so fortunate to have him as our house guest for four days. We went grocery shopping which suddenly became a very entertaining rather then mundane experience, we cooked together, listened to Josh Groban and cried together. What a man! He gave the sweetest toast to his Aunt...he wowed all of her friends at her table as well as all of the family who came to the party. He and Fred enjoyed the list of honey do's I gave them. He truly was the life of any party. I also remember a time quite a few years ago when my girls began calling him Uncle Dick. It was in the front yard of Glengarden Street just after Ralph Sr.'s (Fred's Dad) funeral. Daria and Mindy were very sad, and Uncle Dick took them out to the swing and talked about their Bumpa when Uncle Dick was a little boy and all of the wonderful times they had together. He actually had the power to cheer those little girls up, and they both love him so much. I honestly believe that there isn't a person whom he met who didn't like him. I know why you keep asking "are you missing me?". I still miss him. And, Jeannie, I hope you had the most wonderful time in St Thomas with Danielle. I bet he was there, too. Love, Jackie

Ricardito with Neyra and Ceci... our fun lunches! Fall 2004

December 31, 2007

Jeannie Joyce

December 27, 2007

Oh, Dickie.....I can't stand it! You have been gone nearly a year and I feel that I am going backward rather than forward! I was once so proud of how I was handling things both before and after your death, but now I feel so very tired and so very, very sad. To avoid facing a Christmas I knew would never be the same, I listened to your secret guidance and took Danielle to our honeymoon island in the Virgin Islands (St. Thomas). I knew you would find us a great spot, which you did, and would be there with us, which you were. I love it that you are still guiding us with decisions, choices, etc., and fear the day you can no longer do that. (I don't know what God's rules are about that! Hope He never noticed how independent I have always been!) Anyway, Merry Christmas my love, and I hope you didn't cry too loudly when you heard the joyous voices of the angels singing carols up there! With your voice, tho, you were probably invited to be the rookie of this year's choir! Must go now..............I love you......missing me? missing you..........

December 24, 2007

Merry Christmas Dick you are missed! Love, Connie

Jeanne K. Joyce

November 16, 2007

Hi, Dickie....I'm so sorry that I haven't made an entry in this journal for so long, but fortunately I have been blessed with family and friends that listen to me and all I have to share about you. I KNOW that you are still around and have not only been protecting me but also have been presenting yourself in your comical little ways (hiding stuff for a few minutes, making impossible things happen, wearing that cologne I don't like, guiding me in the right direction in several things, helping your children in many different ways, etc.) Our anniversary (39th, in case you have still forgotten) was actually quite nice for me. I was at the chiropractor having a bit of therapy where I was lying down with a devise on my back, lovely music playing and just drifted back to our wedding day. I haven't had a chance to do that for ages and was amazed about the details I remembered! Of course, then I got into a funk thinking about the fact that 39 years ago we were in the Virgin Islands basking in that glorious sun, eating wonderful food and drinking some exotic libations! Maybe next year I will go again and you could join me in spirit. I miss you, Dickie, and am very grateful that you are still here with me. I know that doesn't last forever.......God will give you something else to do.........but in the meantime I'll savor it. Your birthday is on Sunday and Danielle and I are going to celebrate it the usual way: LOBSTER! Be there! We all love and miss you. Keep us in your heart just as we do you. Take care of your sister....she misses you more than you will ever know.

You should be proud of your new home in Calvary. The stone you made sure I saw by making it rain that day turned out to be an absolute beauty! You and those faces on Mt. Rushmore now have more in common than you think! The bronze roses were cast by a really talented German and each rose represents our children....the full bloom one Danielle, the opening one Tyler and the bud our "baby" Brandon. Everyone that has seen it has given me rave reviews. I can hardly wait to get up there to see it for myself and to be near you and all those around you that I have loved with all my heart.

Happy anniversary, dear husband, happy birthday, happy Thanksgiving and a merry and blessed Christmas. After that, come back to us. We need you.

Missing you........are you missing me? Your Jeannie

Debbie Poore

July 19, 2007

There are few people in life, other than family, who go so far back that I don’t remember meeting them. Richard, you along with Jeannie and Patty are three of these people. I will always remember your wonderful sense of humor and your sincere interest in all the people who came into your life. When I was a little girl you were my cherished friend Patty’s dearly loved big brother, and you were the beloved sweetheart of my treasured friend and next-door neighbor Jeannie. You were the famous Cheverus baseball player who always had time to joke and laugh with Patty and her shy little friend. And you and Jeannie were Patty and my idols.

For so many years your and Jeannie’s visits with Danielle, Tyler and Brandon to Maine in the summer were the most fun! Lazy summer days at Jordan’s Beach where no one enjoyed the waves and flying a kite more than you, the perpetual kid!

You left us all with many wonderful memories that make us smile through the tears. We all miss you.

Love,
Debbie

Terry Martin

July 15, 2007

Be aware that on July 30 a gang of Dick's Holy Cross classmates will be teeing it up outside of Worcester. Dick will be spoken of often. He is truly missed and will always be in our hearts and prayers. Especially when we're having fun.

I don't know what to say.

July 13, 2007

Honest, I didn't do it!

July 13, 2007

Happy retirement!!!

July 13, 2007

Chet & Geri Jackman

July 13, 2007

Hi Jeanne,
Geri and I are still enjoying my retirement. I didn't have a real appreciation of all she does for everyone until I retired and was at home all the time. Sometimes I feel cheated, but then I realize how much others also need her.

The Cheverus baseball cap is still my favorite and always will be. It means so much to me, especially in the spirit it was given to me.

Just as meaningful is the baseball card Dick sent. Everytime I go into my office, I see it and think of him.

I've lost what I consider one of my best friends. I heard so much about Dick from Geri, Missy and Tiffany that I felt I knew him for many years.

We send our love and prayers,
Chet & Geri

Jeannie Joyce

July 13, 2007

Hi, Dickie, Missin' you, are you missin' me? Talked to Axle Dougherty the other night. It was so great to hear from her! We had a few good laughs and she came up with some great memories of you. I think their favorite will always be the Harriman's IGA outfit you bo't to wear to chop down a Christmas tree! Since we were a little short on on winter gear from living in Dallas for over three years, you were quite desperate for something to keep your big head warm. But IGA???? Give me a break! I hope you are keeping an eye on the progress being made in the yard. It is absolutely gorgeous and you would soooooo enjoy it! It makes me think of you, though, because it is everything you would have dreamed of. Brandon and Kiara are coming down tomorrow. This will be Kiki's first visit without you here. She'll miss you. Try to show up and hang out with us a bit, okay? Give Nana and Bubby a kiss and hug for me. I love you all....Jeannie

Jerry (Spellman) DiMillo

July 12, 2007

My memories of Dick go all the way back to 1956. Dick, Jeannie and I were 8th graders at St. Joseph's School in Portland. "Happy Day's" certainly could have been a theme for us. I think back to the parties at Paul Sullivan's, dances at Cheverus and Dick and Jeannie introducing me to Annette. Those were such wonderful times. Playing football, basketball and baseball for St. Joe's was an amazing time for all of us. We were just a bunch of Jr. High kids playing ball like every other kid. Except we never lost. Our undefeated football, basketball and baseball records still stand today as far as I know. At the centerpiece of all this was Dick, the consumate athlete. He was certainly a giant on the football field and the basketball court. I remember well some of our opponents reaction when we walked out onto the field or the court and they would look at Dick, this giant of a kid and we knew we had already won. But playing baseball with Dick was something altogether different. I don't think any of us realized at the time how very special Dick Joyce was and how privileged we all were. But we were special because of him. He made us play better. He just expected us to. And I think I had the most special job of all. I was his catcher. So many times over the years I have thought back to that time of my life and I cherish every memory. Whenever Dick's name would come up, whether it was about his pitching at Cheverus, Holy Cross, the Olympics or KC against the Red Sox, I would take great pride in saying "yes, I know Dick, I was one of his catchers." Although the years took us in very seperate directions and locations across the country I have always considered Dick a friend that I still have the greatest respect for. I miss you greatly my friend and Jeannie knows she always has Annette and I whenever she needs us. God bless.

Jeannie Joyce

July 12, 2007

My dear, I simply and utterly cannot believe you are gone! I have said that for months now but thank God you keep visiting me and continue to show me how much you care! "I'm missing you.......are you missing me?" keeps coming from my lips, but I know the answer and I feel it with all my heart. I hope you know all the love that reaches up to you from those you left behind. I still get calls and notes from those who recently and shockingly found out about your death. You touched so many, Dickie. Be proud and rest in peace. I love you.......Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

May 1, 2007

Hi, Dickie, Connie was here for a couple of weeks. She had a hard time when she realized you were not going to be in your usual chair to hear her yell, "Where's my Dickie". We managed to have a good time in spite of a huge tree falling in the backyard the day after her arrival. It destroyed your tree, part of the pond, our beautiful lantern, table, chairs and lots of other goodies. However, it did not hit the house! Had it done that, we would be together right now! The weather is finally getting nice--the time of year you always enjoyed. Today I am having two new airconditioners and two new furnaces installed. I am hoping no more things will go wrong for a little while at least! (the garage door will probably be next, right?) I miss you terribly and keep expecting you to walk in every evening. I still know, though, that you would be suffering and I would rather be lonely than have you go through that. I love you, Dickie Joyce, and thank you with all my heart for seeing that I will be taken care of for the rest of my life. You promised me you would just as you promised you would love me forever. You certainly have kept those promises just as I have kept mine. I will see you in Maine in a few days and put you in your final resting place. Your sister will be with me for those dreaded goodbyes, but I know you will always be around us all in spirit and love. Your Jeannie

Jeannie Joyce

April 4, 2007

Oh, Dickie, It's just getting harder and harder. Today is the anniversary of Mom's death....I was wondering why I was more down in the dumps than usual! The kids miss you so much, too. It amazes them that life goes on around them while their hearts are so heavy. The only thing that helps us all is knowing you are no longer suffering, are able to run again (I hope you're not dancing--you are lousy at that!), play some ball with the angels or "Angels" if you really have to, laughing with old friends and family and learning the life histories of everyone up there! I miss you, dear man. Help me to laugh again.........Jeannie

Kathy Maloney

March 7, 2007

I met Dick through my cousin, John, about 30 years ago. John called him "Beowulf" and we enjoyed much laughter together. When John died, I asked Dick to deliver the eulogy and he graciously accepted. With his splendid wit, warmth, and sincerity he eased our pain. He was a giant of a man in many ways, and incredibly humble.
Jeannie, my deepest sympathy to you and your children.

Jeannie Joyce

February 28, 2007

Dear Dickie, I simply cannot believe you are gone. Knowing you were somewhere nearby most of my life makes it nearly impossible for me to accept the fact that I will never see you again. I keep waiting to hear "Hey, Jeannie", but those words never come. I do, however, hear you tell me that you have always loved me and always will. The comfort of those last words to me will sustain me forever. I love you, too, Dickie. Jeannie

Rashida Hodge (Your little island daughter)

February 18, 2007

Daddy Dick, Oh how I miss you dearly. However, I know you are watching over me, especially listening to how many times I say "you know what I mean in a sentence". You are in my heart, life, mind, and soul forever. I will continue to make you proud and most importantly make a difference like you did in my life for others.

February 15, 2007

Dearest Dickie, My humble thanks to have had you for a very special friend and leaving so many memories to be cherished always. May God let you be your Jeanne's Gaurdian Angel to help her through the tomorrows without you. Love your sister in law Connie

Terry Martin

February 15, 2007

Dear Jeannie:
God bless you and the kids. Dick clearly enjoyed his life with you and was such a great friend to us all certainly, in part, because he was so happy with his life. Rest in peace, Big Guy.

Lynn Thomas

February 14, 2007

Dear Jeannie,

I will always remember Dick as towering over me with a hand on my shoulder saying hello and asking how are things going? The MW Holiday Parties are the times I will remember the most.

Fr. John Keegan

February 14, 2007

Dear Jeannie,

It was a pleasure to meet Dick when he was inducted into the CCheverus Hall of Fame. It was a pleasure to be with you, him and the family. I have prayed with you and for him since he has been so sick.
I offer my con dolences to you and your family and friends. If I had not been recuperating from knee replacement surgey, I would have been with you at his funeral mass in P:ortlan.d.

May Dick rest in the peace of ur good and gracious God and my you know the consolation of the Lord of life, Jesus Christ.

Fr. John W. Keegan,S.J.

John Kerry

February 14, 2007

Dear Jeannie,

Please accept my most profound condolences and prayers during this time of sorrow and loss for your familiy, But as Jim said at Dick's funeral Mass, "we should only remember the many good times we had together", especially at Cheverus and Holy Cross. The Mass and reception at Cheverus was a great tribute to Dick and to your family. We are all better people for having been privileged to be Dick's friend.

All the Best,

John Kerry

Holly Donovan Winger

February 13, 2007

Dear Jeannie,
I have read the condolences here and also on the Apex Funeral Parlor site. All of them cite similar feelings of thankfulness for having known Dick...and I think it was easier for him to be so generous with all of us because of the love he shared with you. I know my life is better because of the example he set...in work, in life, but especially with his family. I no longer remember the specific jokes, the silly skits, the crazy office....but I know I will always remember his welcoming smile when I first arrived in Maine over 31 years ago.

I love to think someone in heaven is trying to get my attention when I see change on the ground... so, expect to see a coin or two every day as Dick settles in to his new heavenly home! Thoughts and prayers always...

Jeannie Joyce

February 13, 2007

My darling Dickie, I'm missing you...are you missing me? How often we said that to each other--even before we were married! We even brought tears to each others eyes back then! Never, ever did I think I would be saying them for real so soon! Dick, I hope you saw and heard all the tributes bestowed on you over these past two weeks. You made such everlasting impressions on so many lives and were so very, very loved! Being the humble man you have always been, your children were blown away hearing of all your accomplishments and the respect that was so freely voiced by hundreds! I'm at our dear friend Dana's right now trying to heal a little before returning to our home. If this does not help me enough, my sister will join me down there as soon as possible. I know that I will be fine eventually and that I will always have our dear friends and relatives to watch over me, but remember that that is still your job as well! Keep me safe, my love...........Jeannie

JoAnne Best

February 10, 2007

Dear Jeannie
I was so sorry to hear about Dick's passing...he was a wonderful guy and I enjoyed being his secretary in Portland...there was never another one like him

Sincerely, JoAnne Best

Michael LeClerc

February 7, 2007

My sympathy to his family. I was just a little boy and lived accross the street from him on Hillside rd.in Portland.He was so nice,he knew I played baseball so,he autographed a baseball and gave it to me. Thanks for the memory.

Eileen Dascanio

February 7, 2007

I was so surprised and saddened to hear that such a great man had passed away. I wish to send my sincerest thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Joyce family. I knew Dick through his sister, Patty and through my sister, Patty, from many years ago when Dick and his sister were still in high school. Sincerely, Eileen Dascanio, Colchester, CT.

Connie & Woody Jones

February 7, 2007

Dear
Jeannie, Woody and I send our sympathy and love to you and your
family. Dick was such a wonderful guy! It was a joy to know him and a
privilege to work with him at IBM. Although it has been quite a few
years since he was our Branch Manager in Portland, the memories are fond, inspiring and some just plain funny.
You are in our hearts and prayers. Connie

David O'Connor

February 7, 2007

So sorry to hear about Dick's passing. I knew him when he was younger, moving into my old neighborhood of Rosemont. Always a gentlemen and sportsman, memories of many games of "pickup" ball in the fall come to mind. If there was ever a greater success story out of ST. Joe's, Cheverus, or Holy Cross, I've never heard of it. Rest in peace with the Lord, Dick.

Dan & Mary (Foley) Sylvester

February 7, 2007

Jeannie & family,

Our sincerest sympathy to you and yours upon hearing of Dick's passing our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ann Murphy DeBonis

February 7, 2007

Jeannie,
I was so sorry to hear of Dick's death. It has been a while since the CHS Cheverus days but I have many happy memories of good times with the old gang. He was such a great guy and it sounds like you have had a great life together.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ann Murphy DeBonis

Mary K Pappas Burns

February 7, 2007

My deepest sympathies to Jeannie and family.

Ray Carter

February 7, 2007

Ray Carter- PHS Class of 1961-I also was a friend of Dicks mother and aunt Maxine, they went on many
bus trips with me, I as so sorry.

Showing 1 - 60 of 60 results