Richard Alfred MacDonald

    Richard Alfred MacDonald (86), a lifelong resident of Weymouth, passed away Tuesday, November 22nd following complications from Dementia. Richard was born on August 28th, 1937 to Richard and Kathleen (Connors) Hergesell. 

  Richard graduated from Weymouth High School in 1955.  Shortly, thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps serving proudly until 1960.  In 1962, he married the love of his life, Cynthia (Clifford) MacDonald of Weymouth on July 14th. One week later, he was sworn in as a Patrolman beginning a 40 year career as a proud police officer on both the Weymouth Police Department (1962-1970) and then the Boston Police Department (1970-2002). He was a patriot who loved his country and those who shared that love. 

    Upon retirement, Richard enjoyed nature walks and bird watching, but mostly enjoyed time with this family.  He never missed a grandchild’s school event or opportunity to support their interests.  He enjoyed watching baseball, but no player could replace his fondness for Ted Williams. Richard also loved reading history books and had a deep admiration for Winston Churchill. 

    Richard is survived by his wife Cynthia, daughter Julie Rhodes and her husband George of Plymouth, MA and son Rick MacDonald and his wife Tamara of Hingham, MA.  He was a grandfather to Katie and Gwen Rhodes and Drew and Caroline MacDonald.  Richard is also survived by his sister Kathleen Cunningham of Battleground, WA.  He was predeceased by his sister Mary Melinis of Weymouth, MA and brother Craig MacDonald of Hanover, MA.  Richard is also survived by many nieces and nephews.  

  Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a visitation for Richard on Sunday, December 3, 2023, from 1-4pm, at the CC Shepherd Funeral Home located at 134 Pleasant St. (Columbian Sq.) Weymouth. Relatives and friends will gather in the funeral home the following morning for a Celebration of Life at 9am, prior to the Mass and St Francis Xavier Church at 10am.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org) or Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org)