Richard P. "Rich" Spalding

Richard P. "Rich" Spalding, 65

Of Newton, passed away unexpectedly and tragically on January 24, 2026.

Born on May 1, 1960, in Newton, Rich was the beloved son of the late Leslie and Muriel Spalding and one of eight children. He was a graduate of Newton North High School, Class of 1978. Immediately following high school, Rich enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably and proudly for six years.

Rich dedicated much of his professional life to public safety. He was employed as a Safety Officer at Newton - Wellesley Hospital for approximately 30 years and later served as an ISO at the Massachusetts College of Art & Design in Boston for the past 15 years.

Rich had many interests and talents. He loved music, enjoyed singing karaoke, and had a true passion for playing golf. A jack of all trades around the house, he was always busy fixing, building, or working on something. Above all else, Rich's greatest joy in life was his family-especially his role as "PAPA" to his six beloved grandchildren, whom he adored beyond measure.

He was a longtime member of the Sons of the American Legion, a Mason with the Freemasonry Dalhousie Lodge F.A.M. of Newton, The HAC and a member of the Air Force Ammo Group.

Rich is survived by the love of his life and soulmate of 17 years, Christine Lucente; his loving sons, Adam Spalding and his wife Kacee, and Andrew Spalding and his wife Allison; and his cherished grandchildren, Atlas, Artemis, Aiden, Aurora "Rory," Roux, and Sekani. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, countless dear friends, and his extended family, the Lucente's.

Rich will be remembered for his devotion to family, his generous heart, his steady presence, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those who wish to pay their respects to Rich and his family can do so in the Brasco & Sons Memorial Funeral Home, 773 Moody Street, WALTHAM on WEDNESDAY February 4th from 4PM until 8PM. For those who wish to pay their final respects, but are unable to attend, please be sure to sign the guestbook at www.BrascoFuneralhome.com. Parking attendants will be on duty.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and celebrate Richie's life to remember the love and friendship he shared with so many in his lifetime at a Funeral Service in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial on THURSDAY morning February 5th at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the MSPCA or Animal Rescue Legue of Boston-Dedham Branch