Richard Spizzirri

Richard “Dickie” Spizzirri, 86, born on April 17, 1939, passed away on January 18, 2026 at the West Roxbury Veterans Hospital. Born in East Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late Joseph and Verna (Plummer) Spizzirri. He was devout catholic.

Richard served in the United States Army , stationed in Freiberg Germany alongside Elvis Presley. He was honorably discharged with exemplary conduct metals and specialty training honors. Richard went onto hold the New England PVA Treasurer title for decades.

Richard was an outstanding athlete. He won the Silver Metal in Archery at the Barcelona Paralympics in 1992. He participated in the National Wheelchair Games for decades. He was awarded an abundance of gold medals and trophies for archery, bowling, pool and table tennis also, many local awards.

Richard had a passion for cooking and gardening. He resided at Brockton, Veterans Hospital, after living independently in Westwood, MA. Residents and staff daily would see him engaging in sport activities, cooking and implementing an entire outdoor garden filled with vegetables, herbs and flowers for his entire unit. 

Richard was an inspiration to all and beloved by all for his sense of humor, his ever-positive outlook on life influential spirit despite his condition, he spread love, hope and cheer to all. Richard was an indomitable resilient man who loved life .

He will be sadly missed by all he touched.

A loving father and grandfather, Richard is survived by his two daughters, Constance Almonte and Heidi Almonte Furtado. His grandchildren, Ryan and Alexandra, nieces and nephews, and a good friend of Captain Frances of the Brockton, VA.

Richard was predeceased by his brothers Michael, Joseph, and his identical twin brother Leroy, his sisters, Virginia, Norma, Mary Ann, and Thelma.

Visitation for Richard will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 10:00AM-12:00 PM at the URQUAHRT-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME,800 Greenwich Avenue ,Warwick. Followed by a service with full military honors at 12:30 in the Chapel of the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery,301 South County Trail, Exeter, RI.

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