Philip A. Richards Obituary

Philip Allen Richards, 76, of Gloucester, Massachusetts, died peacefully on August 2, 2026.

Philip was born in Melrose, Massachusetts, on September 22, 1949, to Mary and Fredrick Richards of 12 West Water Street in Wakefield. He married his high school sweetheart, Barbara, on April 18th 1982. Philip and Barbara settled in Gloucester, where they bought their first home and raised two children, Joshua and Callee.

Philip lived a life defined by charity. If family was in town, he was there. If his children needed a ride or a hand with their new home, he offered before being asked. He would often rise before anyone else to make a full breakfast for the family, and the word "complain" simply didn't exist in his vocabulary. Throughout his life, Philip never expected anything in return; he gave simply out of love for the people around him. Friends and family always wanted Philip in their company — he loved hosting a game of cribbage, and people cherished even a few minutes with him because he had a gift for making others laugh and feel appreciated. No matter the situation, Philip always delivered. It was just how he was wired.

Philip is survived by his wife, Barbara Giuffre-Richards, and his children, Joshua and Callee. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jax, Roman, and Mason; his two brothers, Paul and Peter Richards; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Fredrick and Mary; his sister, Patricia; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Visiting hours for Philip will be held at the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, on Friday, August 7, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. Philip's funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. John the Baptist Church, 52 Main St., Essex, on Saturday, August 8, at 10:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. The burial will follow at Dolliver Memorial Cemetery in Gloucester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Philip's memory to Open Door at 28 Emerson Ave., Gloucester.