Richard James Ahearn

Richard James Patrick Ahearn of St Mary's Kansas, departed this life at the age of 93, on September 8, 2025.

Richard was born to Stephen and Julia (Smith) Ahearn, on August 16, 1932 in Queens, NY, and he remained a proud New Yorker his whole life.

After attending Saint Matthias Catholic school and Grover Cleveland High, Richard joined the Army, where he served during the Korean War. His years stationed in Japan were among his fondest and most vivid memories.

Richard began civilian life as a truck driver for Texaco and later became a driving instructor. He bravely ventured back to school at the age of 51 and earned his AA degree.

Richard married the love of his life, Kathleen Campbell, in 1963. Together they raised three children, moving first to Australia and then settling in San Jose, California. In retirement, they moved to Kansas where they lived out their years close to the Immaculata Church they both loved.

Throughout his life, Richard was an avid woodworker and was never happier than when working in his shop, building or lovingly restoring the beauty of an old piece. He also loved classical music and sharing this passion, teaching music appreciation to high school students.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Kathleen, and by his siblings, Theresa, Stephen, and Raymond.

He is survived by his children and their spouses: June and Dave Keith, Jeanette and Chris Pryor, and Patrick and Gabrielle Ahearn. His grandchildren: Matthew, Marie and Lucie Keith; Isabelle, Marcel, Henri, Gabriel and John Pryor; and Nicholas, Martin, Emily, Audrey, Lauren and Madeline Ahearn. His great-grandchildren: Rory and Adele Keith. His brother, Jack Ahearn.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 - 4:00 PM on Sunday, September 14 at Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St. in St. Marys, where they will recite the rosary at 4:00 PM. A requiem mass will be offered at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 15 at The Immaculata, 701 N. 2nd St. in St. Marys with burial following in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions in Richard's memory may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America by clicking PVA.org/PVA/donate-PVA?utm_source=website&utm_medium=web&utm_content=homepage_donate_topright&utm_campaign=evergreen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE.