Richard L. Gillette

Richard L. Gillette, Sr., 87, of Waymart passed away peacefully on Monday morning, April 28, 2025. His wife of nearly 68 years, the former Irene M. Mobley survives him. They were married May 25, 1957.

Born November 5, 1937 in Scranton, PA, he was the son of the late Fred T. and Margaret E. (Kellogg) Gillette and the late Alson Safford.

Richard served in the United States Air Force from October of 1956 until his honorable discharge in April of 1960. Following his military service, he worked for the General Electric Company. Richard established, owned, and operated Gillette Contracting for 35 years during which time he constructed countless buildings and other structures in the region, most of which still exist today.

To say that Richard was a hard worker is an understatement. He began working at age 14 and didn't stop until his health prevented it just a few months ago. A man of many talents, he continuously reinvented himself throughout his life and consistently strove to be the best that he could be, regardless of whatever endeavor he was pursuing. Until last fall at age 86, Richard was a driver for Wayne County Transportation. Well into his eighties, he often remarked to his family, "I drive the old people around." Richard lived a life of sacrifice to support his family, and would do anything to help those he loved. He was generous to a fault.

Richard was a member of the Waymart Golf League. For the last 16 years, he was dedicated to looking after the well being of the local cat population; he safely trapped, cared for, and personally paid for veterinary services for countless cats that he didn't even own. This was a perfect example of the love and care that made Richard who he was. He will be lovingly remembered and never forgotten.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by three children: Richard L. Gillette, Jr. and his wife Sandy of Moscow, PA, Kathleen Badenhop and her husband Thomas of Honesdale; and Teri Carey and her husband Jesse of Waymart; 11 grandchildren: Richard Gillette III (Ashley) Nicholas Gillette (Nicole), Trisha Ellis, Melissa Damiano (Thomas), Stephanie Badenhop (Alex Gryger), Sarah Balut (Matt), Keith Gillette, Megan Carey (Vin Mangione), and Devon Carey (John Glinsky); great-grandchildren: Richard Gillette IV, Clara, Nicholas, Max, Dylan, Gavin, Corbin, Lillian, Luca, Nico, Charlie, and Emersyn.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Alan T. Gillette in 2005; a great-grandson, VP3; four sisters, Shirley Kreilick, Dorothy Soja, Virginia Collins; and a brother, Fritz Gillette.

Graveside Funeral Services with military honors will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM in The Waymart Cemetery at Canaan Corners, Owego Turnpike, Waymart, PA. Everyone attending is asked to go directly to the cemetery.

The family will receive friends and relatives at a viewing on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 4-7 PM at the Howell Family Funeral Home, Inc., Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard's memory to any local animal shelter or rescue organization of the donor's choice.