Richard J. Bushey Sr.

Richard J. Bushey, Sr., 88 of Plainville, passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025. "Pa" as he was affectionately known, carried with him a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for family, and a gentle, good-natured spirit that touched everyone who knew him.
Born on September 7, 1937, and raised in Ashland, Maine, Richard was one of nine children of the late Wildred and Sophie (Bass) Bushey. He worked in manufacturing for many years, where his reliability, dedication, and humor earned the respect of his coworkers and friends. He also proudly served his country in the Army National Guard for nearly ten years, an experience he held in high regard throughout his life.
A man of many passions, Richard found joy in the simple things that made life rich. A die-hard New York Mets fan since the 1970s, he remained loyal through every high and low. He loved spending quiet mornings reading his newspaper, tending to his extraordinary flower and vegetable gardens, and sharing the fruits of his labor by canning his crops for family and friends. His green thumb and generous heart made sure no one left his home empty-handed. A true lover of nature, he delighted in fishing with his many boats that he acquired through the years, especially his favorite one that he lovingly named "Jaws." Camping was another of Richard's great passions, as he reveled in the tranquility of the woods, sharing stories and making memories around the campfire.
For the past 23 years, Richard shared his life with his love, Bernice St. Jean. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, adventure, and companionship. From worldwide travels to Wednesday card games and spontaneous casino trips, their days were full of joy, mischief, and affection.
Richard also had a deep love for animals and cared for many pets over the years, each one lucky to have known his kindness. Those who knew him will remember his warm smile, playful sense of humor, and the way he made every gathering brighter simply by being there. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will live on in the gardens he nurtured, the family he loved, and the hearts he touched.
In addition to Bernice, he leaves his children, Kathy Spencer and her husband, Roy, Richard J. Bushey, Jr. and his wife, Shari, Brian Bushey and Jeffrey Bushey and his wife, Dixie Meehan; his grandchildren, Mike Spencer and his wife, Becky, Matthew Spencer and his partner, Danea, Katie (Bushey) Jones and her husband, Dan, and Ryan Bushey; his great-grandchildren, Adelia and Ben Spencer, Noelle and Kennedy Jones, and Jacqueline Baumgartner. He also leaves his brothers, Paul, Sam, and Gerry Bushey, his sister, Shirley Charette, his second family, the Dionne's, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Raine Bushey, Irene Theriault, Jeanette Levesque and Milford Bushey, and his former wife, Carolyn Bushey.
Family and friends may gather in celebration of Richard's life on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville. Prayers and words of remembrance will be shared at 11 a.m. followed by military honors. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.
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