Richard J. "BUPD" Camillo

Visiting hours will be held Tuesday afternoon from 1-5 PM at the Carroll-Thomas Funeral Home 22 Oak Street Hyde Park. Relatives and friends invited, interment will be private at family's request. Please in lieu of flowers all donations can be made to The Irish American Police Officers Association of Massachusetts Scholarship Fund in honor of Rick to: IAPOA 3 Brighton Street Belmont MA 02478.

Richard J. Camillo, of Dedham, affectionately known as Ricky to his friends and family, passed away from a medical emergency in the line of duty on September 8, 2025, in his hometown of Boston, MA. Born on February 23, 1960, Ricky was a true Bostonian through and through, with his early years spent in the neighborhoods of Dorchester and Readville. He was the cherished son of the late Robert and Irene (Melanaphy) Camillo, and he carried the values of his family with pride throughout his life.
Ricky was the beloved husband of Denise Camillo (Kasputis), with whom he shared 31 years of marriage since their union in 1994. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Victoria Camillo, and her partner Josh Durbal of Dedham. He also embraced the role of stepfather to Michael Burke and his partner Alexandra Mealey of Franklin. He was a devoted brother, now reunited in memory with his late siblings Diane Martin and her late husband Leon, the late Robert Camillo and his late wife Debra, and the late Donna Camillo. Ricky's legacy is further honored by his many adoring nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, in-laws, close friends, and fellow Police Officers who will miss him dearly.
Rick graduated from Jerimiah E. Burke High School in Dorchester in 1977, and later from the Boston Police Academy, setting the stage for a distinguished career in law enforcement. On August 8, 1988, he began what would be a 37-year tenure with the Boston University Police Department. He served with dedication and honor, first as a patrolman, then as a Detective for a few years, before returning to the patrol where he found his true calling. Ricky was a respected member of the Irish-American Police Association and was renowned for his role as a Field Training Officer (FTO), where he guided and shaped the careers of numerous recruits.
Ricky's life was rich with interests and passions. He was a movie buff and could often be found enjoying an episode of Jeopardy or cheering on his beloved Boston sports teams. Trivia nights were a particular joy, as were the moments spent having a few beers with friends and family while watching the Patriots or Bruins. Rick's high school hockey days were fond memories that he cherished, and before becoming a father, he enjoyed trips to New Hampshire and Cape Cod. A master of the grill, Ricky loved cooking for his loved ones, and his presence was the heart of any gathering.
Described by those who knew him as loving, kind, and courageous, Ricky's impact on the world was profound. He was a man who dedicated his life to the service of others, both as a police officer and as a family man, with his greatest accomplishment, his daughter, Victoria. His warmth, generosity, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Richard J. Camillo's passing leaves a void in the Boston community and beyond, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy is one of love, loyalty, commitment, and unwavering courage, and it will be carried forward by those who were fortunate enough to have been part of his remarkable journey. Ricky's life was a testament to the enduring power of kindness and the strength of the human spirit. He will be forever remembered and forever missed.