Mr. Richard Ivan "Rick" Eddie Jr.

Mr. Richard Ivan Eddie, Jr., age 75, passed away on December 31, 2025, in Gainesville, Fl. Rick was born in Uniontown, PA to Richard I. Eddie, Sr., and Ellen M. Eddie on December 28, 1950.

Upon graduating from St. John Catholic High School in 1969 he began working for the Bell System, following in his father's footsteps. Rick enjoyed a 43-year career in communications with Southern Bell, BellSouth and AT&T. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America and a proud member of the CWA where he served in many roles including Vice President and as a Union Steward in his Local. Rick also served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Taiwan from 1970 to 1973. He continued his dedication to serving his country for another 10 years in the Reserves.

Rick was a devoted member of St. Patrick Church. He served on the parish council, was an usher, a Eucharistic minister, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus where he held the title of Grand Knight of Council #6108, he was also member of the 4th Degree Assembly. Rick loved to cook and was the chief chef and bottle washer at St. Patrick's Church and school. He always looked forward to planning and cooking for church events, and he very much enjoyed teaching his craft to others.

Rick had a deep love for all things Pennsylvania. He cheered for the Steelers, Pirates, Penguins, and of course, the Penn State Nittany Lions. He also looked forward to his annual trips back to Uniontown for his Class Reunion and loved reconnecting with old friends. He supported the Democratic Party and the Democratic Women's Club. A resident of Gainesville for 47 years, he was a vibrant presence in his community and family, truly walking in the footsteps of Jesus.

He is survived by his mother, Ellen M. Eddie, his brother, Mike; his wife, Sheryl Eddie; his daughters Shannon Hernandez and Trish Eddie; his chosen daughters Danielle Sellars (Aaron), Emily Wolf and Sarah Wolf; his grandchildren, Noah, Lucas, Allie, James and Natalie. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard I. Eddie, Sr.; his brothers, Thomas and John (Jack); and his first wife, Susan Eddie.

A Catholic Mass in his honor will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 500 NE 16th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 on January 31st, 2026, at noon, with a reception to follow in the social hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations:

1. St. Patrick's Catholic Church Feed the Children:

spccgnv.org/online-giving-2 (please put in Memo: Rick Eddie's Food for Kids)

2. Stop Soldier Suicide:

stopsoldiersuicide.org

3. The Democratic Women's Club of Alachua County:

https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dwcactributegift

(or mail checks to: PO Box 357579, Gainesville, FL 32653)