Obituary: Elizabeth Anne Cotter

Elizabeth Anne Cotter, 70

Elizabeth Anne (Ferriter) Cotter, lovingly referred to as Betsy by her family, died suddenly in her Hollywood, Fla., home on Aug. 19. She was 70. 

Betsy was born during a snowstorm on Dec. 28, 1950, to Richard and Eleanor Ferriter in Hull, at the southern edge of the Boston Harbor. She graduated from Notre Dame Academy in 1969. She was a first-rate scholar and an all-state basketball point guard nicknamed “Swish.” 

After high school, Betsy attended Boston College, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in education in 1973, finishing third in her class. She also earned her master’s degree in special education at Boston College in 1974. She was always proud to be a member of the first graduating class with open enrollment for women at Boston College.   

On July 23, 1968, Betsy and Bob Cotter had their first date at the Weymouth drive-in movie theater. Upon graduation from Boston College, they married, honeymooned, and moved to Hawaii where they pursued their careers and started a family. 

During 14 years in Hawaii, Betsy was an educator, principal, and ultimately the executive director of the Easter Seals Society of Hawaii. Her mission was to help deaf and blind children of mothers who contracted rubella (German measles) during their first trimester of pregnancy. In this pursuit, Betsy built numerous group homes to house local children in need and raised several million dollars in federal funding to support this cause. 

Betsy is survived by her husband of 47 years, Bob Cotter; her children Bob Jr. and his spouse, Madga Brown; Joe and his spouse, Ciara LaVelle; and Colleen. She also is survived by the three sons of her deceased brother, Bob Ferriter, whom Betsy lovingly called “the three bears”: Bob Jr. and his spouse, Esther Kim; Ryan and his fiancé, Sarah Falvey; and Steven and his spouse, Rory Cellucci Ferriter. 

According to Betsy, the best title she ever had was Nene, given to her by her oldest grandson, Finley. Betsy loved every second she spent with her grandchildren: Finley, Caidan, and Mia.
She also leaves

 her siblings: Richard and his spouse, Kaye Ferriter; Jim and his spouse, Patti Ferriter; and Ellen (Ferriter) McCallister and her spouse, Kevin McCallister; and their children. And she is survived by numerous in-laws, Cotter outlaws, and too many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends to count. Betsy was considered a second mom to many and opened her door to anyone in need. 

While family was clearly Betsy’s favorite passion, she had many others. As a young girl, she was an avid sailor. She was a diehard fan of all Boston sports teams and loved to travel. In her travels she lived on three continents and in six states and built 19 loving homes. Betsy loved chasing rainbows, which brought her to some of the most beautiful beaches all over the world. She enjoyed an occasional day at the races, especially nights at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Happy Valley Racecourse. 

Betsy enjoyed volunteering at the International School of Brussels Raider Café and cofounded an annual golf tournament that raised money for ISB athletics. Another passion of Betsy’s was exploring the Irish countryside, especially going to the small town of Baile an Fheirtéaraigh (Ballyferriter), her family’s ancestral home.

She was famous for her red sauce, Nene’s homemade ice cream, her contagious laughter, and her one-liner, “No hooligans pulling shenanigans,” usually directed at the three bears.

There will be a celebration of Betsy’s life on the South Shore on July 23, 2022, the 54th anniversary of Betsy’s and Bob’s first date. Details to come at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Jimmy Fund in Betsy’s honor. 

The details for her Jimmy Fund giving page can be found on the following link: https://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20120a?team_id=9852&pg=team&fr_id=1200&NONCE_TOKEN=69B863D1292F17D557DF2A50EB7D70C7&s_hasSecureSession=true 

Obituary: Mark Andrew Karski

Mark Andrew Karski, 57
Mark Andrew Karski died unexpectedly on Aug. 14 at Highland Pointe Health and Rehabilitation Center in Willoughby Hills, Ohio, from medical complications spanning the past 10 months. He was 57.
Mark was born on Nov. 1, 1963, in Parma, Ohio, to John J. and Ann M. (Fredericks) Karski. He grew up in Mentor, Ohio, and was a 1982 graduate of Mentor High School. 
Mark continued his education at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., and earned his bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering. He went on to serve as a professional fire protection engineer. 
A passionate golfer, Mark was the captain of his high school and college golf teams. He also qualified for the Amateur PGA Tour. 
In his free time, he enjoyed building/flying radio-controlled planes and cooking. He was also very fond of history, rock and roll, and “ice cold beah.” He was quite a character and leaves his friends and family with plenty of memories. 
Mark is survived by his loving children, Elena and Calvin Karski, both of Hull; former spouse, Anna (Plante) Karski, of Hull; and his sister, Kimberly Fossum (Ray), of New Smyrna Beach, Fla. He was preceded in death by his sister, Karen Karski, in addition to his parents.
Burial of ashes will be in Mentor Municipal Cemetery, Mentor, Ohio. 

Obituary: John Manchester

John Manchester, 58
John Manchester died peacefully at home in Hull on Aug. 10, in the company of his longtime companion, Hilary, after a short battle with cancer. He was 58.
John was born in Boston on April 23, 1963. He later became part of the family of the late Rachel and Roger Manchester, who eventually adopted him. When John was 5, the Manchester family moved to Hull, where John would mostly reside for the rest of his life. He was able to reconnect with his birth siblings as an adult, and he felt truly fortunate to have two families who loved him. 
John attended Hull public schools and graduated from the Norfolk County Agricultural High School. He joined the Navy Seabees after high school and served in the construction battalion reserves for nine years, traveling to Jamaica and Cuba, and made several lifelong friends. His main occupational interest thereafter was in the construction trade, as well as in following in the footsteps of his father, Roger, and becoming a carpenter. 
John’s truest passion was more recently in woodworking, and he shared beautiful creations with family, friends, and customers. He also made and donated the sign that whimsically sits above the A Street Pier. 
John was best known around Hull as a local businessman, but also by people he grew up with and for being a member of the A St. Gang, from back in the 1970s. He also made friends with fellow surfers, sharing with them one of his biggest passions growing up. He had a witty sense of humor and loved telling stories with a spin that would always leave people laughing. 
John is survived by his two sons, John Manchester Jr., of Hull, and Michael Manchester, of Weymouth. In addition, he leaves his sisters, Patricia Manchester, Elaine Pendleton, Debra Mulrooney, and Regina O’Riley, as well as brothers James and Richard McGowan. He was predeceased by his brother Herbie and sister Virginia McGowan. He will also be lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, friends, and customers and will be deeply missed by the family he became part of with Hilary, including her children, Hannah, Kelsey, and Seth, and the grandchildren he adored, Azalea and Wilder. 
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations in his name would be welcome to any local Hull charity.

Obituary: Joanne Marie Adduci

Joanne Marie Adduci, 86
Joanne Marie (Kelly) Adduci, of Hull, formerly of Dorchester, died peacefully at her home on Adduci Way on Aug. 13. She was 86.
She was the daughter of the late John, of Roscommon, Ireland, and Mary (McLaughlin) Kelly, Malin Head, Donegal, Ireland. She was raised in Dorchester and graduated from Cardinal Cushing High School with the class of 1953.
Joanne’s professional career was vast and accomplished. She held many prominent positions in and for the city of Boston, as well as the state of Massachusetts. These included Gillette, the Boston Auditing Department, the Mayor’s Office of Capital Planning, under Mayors White, Flynn, and Menino, and the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority. While employed she helped plan, fund, and financially account for special improvement projects.  
Joanne’s financial manager roles earned her numerous awards and recognition at many public buildings, schools, and roads throughout Boston, including Boston City Hospital, Boston Police Headquarters, Boston’s Holocaust Memorial, the Rose Kennedy Greenway, City Hall, and her favorite, the so-called big dig. She was also presented with the Henry L. Shattuck Award for outstanding public service. 
Joanne was an elected member of Hull’s Planning Board and was passionate about local development. She cherished living in Hull and taking the commuter boat every day to Boston, a city that she loved and worked hard for and that was always proud of her contributions. Her dedication to a better Boston and Hull spanned more then 35 years. She was a true trailblazer for working women and their rights. At the opening of the Ted Williams Tunnel (as reported by The Boston Globe), Joanne was honored as the only female manager alongside five male managers.
In her spare time, she enjoyed going to the beach, boating, reading, cooking, sewing, and her family more than anything. As a hobby, she earned a certificate in oenology, the study of wine, from Harvard.  
Joanne was the backbone of her family and proud of her Irish heritage. She was dedicated to helping others, strong-willed, and fierce. Her life lessons and example are part of her legacy that continue through her family. She will be missed by all the lives she touched. 
Joanne was the beloved wife of the late Robert J. Adduci Sr., who died in 2014. The two married on Nov. 11, 1954, at St. Peter’s Church in Dorchester. Together they shared 60 loving years of marriage. She was the devoted mother of Robert J. Adduci Jr. and his wife, Julie Ann, of Scituate; John V. Adduci and his wife, Deborah, of Charlestown; and Jill A. Connolly and her husband, Brian, of Quincy. She was the loving grandmother of Nicole Adduci, of Brooklyn, N.Y.; Caroline and Jack Adduci, both of Charlestown; and Martin, Ella, and Grace Connolly, all of Quincy. She was the dear sister of Marylou Henkin, of St. Augustine, Fla.; she was preceded in death by her siblings: Eileen Dumouchel, John Kelly, and Brian Kelly. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and amazing, compassionate caregivers Karen Dolan and Karen Mitchell, both of Hull.  
Following cremation, funeral services and interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent in Joanne’s name to Norwell Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice, 120 Longwater Drive, Norwell, MA 02061.

Obituary: Virginia Marder Silbert Kupferman

Virginia Marder Silbert Kupferman, 93
Virginia (“Ginger”) Marder Silbert Kupferman, formerly of Boynton Beach, Fla., and Hull, died on Aug. 17 after a short illness. She was 93.
Born and raised in New Bedford, she settled in Hull with her husband, Sidney Silbert, and raised their four children here. 
She was a prominent member of the community, serving active and/or leadership roles in the local PTA, Hadassah, B’nai B’rith, and the sisterhood of Temple Beth Sholom. 
She also served as assessor for the town of Hull. Just prior to his passing, she and Sidney had begun spending part of the year in Boynton Beach. She later married Frank Kupferman and eventually relocated to Boynton Beach permanently; she remained there for 35 years until just prior to her death when she returned to Massachusetts. 
She is survived by her children Bill Silbert and his wife, Grace Ju, of Montclair, N.J.; Barbara Silbert, of Hull; Amy Troupes and husband, Rich, of Framingham; and Sandra Silbert, of Brookline. She is also survived by her grandchildren Sam Silbert, of Washington, D.C., and Sarah Troupes, of Colorado. 
Funeral services will be held at Hull Village Cemetery on Friday, Aug. 20, at 11 a.m.

Obituary: Richard Mavilia

Richard Mavilia, 71
Richard (Richie) Mavilia, of Hull, died peacefully after a long illness on Aug. 15. He was 71.
He was born in Weymouth to the late Grace (Tricomi) and Alfred Mavilia. Raised in Weymouth, he graduated from Weymouth High School.
Richie was a manager at Bay Point Marina, where he worked for 25 years. He was known for his excellent people skills and his legendary memory. “Best guy I ever met” is how people often referred to him.
Richie was the beloved husband of Andrea (Reno) Mavilia, of Hull, father of Stephen Mavilia and his wife, Stacey, of Hanson, and loving grandfather of Rylan Mavilia. He was the brother of Ronald Mavilia and his wife, Susan, of Cohasset; David Mavilia, of Rhode Island; and Paul Mavilia and his husband, Dennis Shaw, of Gardner. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. 
He will be missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Aug. 27 at Bay Pointe Waterfront Restaurant, Quincy, from 3-7 p.m. Please see http://www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Kelvin Jones

Kelvin Jones, 63
Former Massachusetts resident Kelvin Jones died Aug. 1 at his home in Odenton, Md. He was 63.
Mr. Jones was born Sept. 10, 1957, in Macon, Ga., to Arthur and Gladys Jones. In 1992, he came to Massachusetts to work for Talbots as a direct mail catalog print production manager. He developed strong and lasting friendships in the Hingham/Hull area. 
He is survived by six sisters: Jeanette Bryant, Bettie (Horace) Franklin, Catherine Caines, Renita Patterson, Charlene Hubbard, and Yoshunda Jones and a host of loving nieces and nephews. 
A celebration of life service was to be held graveside on Aug. 12 at the Patterson Family Cemetery in Gray, Ga. Arrangements were with Hutchings Funeral Home, Macon, Ga. 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kelvin’s honor to Aphasia Access: https://www.aphasiaaccess.org/donate-now/, Boston University Aphasia Resource Center: www.bu.edu/aphasiacenter/, or to The Loyola Clinical Centers: theclinics@loyola.edu. 
Condolences can be sent to 2020 Bealmear Mill Lane, #6104, Odenton, MD 21113.

Obituary: Anthony Henrickson

Anthony Henrickson, 39
Anthony (“Tony”) Mark Henrickson, of Hingham, died unexpectedly on Aug. 6. He was 39. 
Anthony was born in Quincy on Sept. 23, 1981. He was the beloved son of Lisa A. Mendall and John E. Twombly and the loving stepson of Stephen M. Mendall and Laurie M. Good. He is survived by his children, Anthony M. Henrickson Jr. and Isabella M. Henrickson. 
He was proud older brother to Tanya L. Henrickson, Christopher M. Willis, Nicholas R. Twombly, Amanda M. Twombly, and Bryanna S. Mendall. He was also proud uncle of Giovanni M. Henrickson, Dale E. Holloway Jr., Hailee L. Pike, Daliana L. Holloway, Grace A. Pike, and Connor J. Kinsella. And Anthony was a cherished grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend to so many. 
He loved many things in his life, but what he loved the most were his children, Anthony Jr. and Isabella. From the day they were born, they had his whole heart. Proud does not begin to describe how he felt to be a father. 
Anthony was the proud owner and founder of A.I Mechanics HVAC. He was a jack of all trades: HVAC, auto mechanic, chef, food connoisseur, IT specialist. He was self-taught when it came to most things; anything he wanted to do, he learned to do. He loved taking things apart and almost never putting them back together. He was headstrong and stubborn but had a heart full of gold. He was so smart, sometimes too smart for his own good. He had a passion for his heritage; he was proud to be Italian. He lived by the code of loyalty and family. He will be terribly missed, and we will always have him in our hearts.
Family and friends are invited to Downing Cottage Funeral Chapel at 21 Pond St., Hingham, on Sunday Aug. 15, from 2-5 p.m., to remember Tony. 
In lieu of flowers, all donations can be made to a cause he stood by: https://www.abedforeverychild.org/

Obituary: M. Loyola Cohen

M. Loyola Cohen
Loyola (Cashin) Cohen, of Hull, died Aug. 2, surrounded by her loving family. 
Lola, as she was known, adored her family and was the beloved matriarch that kept everyone close together. She loved spending time with relatives and friends, cooking, baking, reading, and shopping. She enjoyed traveling the world with her lifelong love and late husband Ed and family. 
Lola and Ed were snowbirds in Naples, Fla., and she truly loved her life by the sea. She was a social worker for many years in a private practice and also for the Norwell Visiting Nurses Association and was passionate about her work, positively impacting the lives she touched. 
Lola was a social butterfly and loved her friends, especially the Couples Club. She enjoyed hosting gatherings for family and friends, taking special pride in sharing her baked treats and recipes with those she loved. She lived a wonderful life and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. 
She was the beloved wife of the late Edward Cohen and devoted mother of Janyne Hibbard and her husband, Jason, of Hull; Adrienne Cohen and her husband, Michael Williams, of Statesboro, Ga.; and Michelle Cohen and her partner, Cheech Warner, of Hull. She was cherished Nana of Alexander Suarez; Jessica Lovett and her husband, Chris; Laurel Mattis and her husband, Andrew; and the late Natasha Suarez. She was also loving Nana Lola of Mercedes Sheldrick and Brooklyn Lovett. She was predeceased by her three siblings.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Monday, August 9 at 10-11:30 AM in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St. (off Central St.), HINGHAM followed by the Funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church, Hull at 12 PM. Burial in Hull Village Cemetery, Hull. The family requests that everyone wears masks indoors. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Lola may be made to a charity of your choice. See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.

Obituary: Steven Kagno

Steven Kagno, 81
It is with great sadness that his family announces the passing of Steven Kagno on July 27 at Good Samaritan Hospital. He was 81.
Steve was a friend to all and a loving dad and papa to his children and grandchildren. His sister, Susie, was with him through the last three months, in and out of the hospital, as were other relatives and many friends. He battled prostate cancer and other ailments and never complained about anything.
Steve worked at his family business, Garber Brothers and Radford Warehouse, until his retirement. He also received his Realtor license to work with his longtime partner, Minnie, at her business, Seacoast Realtors.
He is survived by his daughter Jill and her husband, Gary, of Maine; his son Michael and his wife, Susan, of Florida; and his son Randy, of Massachusetts. He also leaves his sister Marcia Sue and her husband, Harvey, of Massachusetts; his grandchildren Mick, Travis, Daniel, Max, and Jake; his niece and nephews, Lori, Jeffrey, Rob, and Eric; and many caring friends. He was predeceased by Minnie and by his brother, Arthur.
A private service and burial were scheduled for Aug. 3. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hull Boosters, P.O Box 305, Hull, MA 02045. 
Services were under the direction of Stanetsky Memorial Chapels in Canton.

Friends recall Rick Lawrence’s lasting impact on Hull, his ‘adopted’ hometown

By Christopher Haraden

Several years ago, this newspaper published an obituary for a 50-something-year-old man named Richard E. Lawrence. To Times readers who didn't know that there were two unrelated men of similar age with the same name around town, it caused a stir.

Rick Lawrence hated having his photo taken. A fellow guest at the author’s wedding caught him by surprise for this image in 1997…

With his usual dark sense of humor, the “original” Rick Lawrence —  the larger-than-life local businessman who managed the Dream Machine arcade, Ricky’s of Nantasket, the Levin family properties, and for a time, the Paragon Carousel — spent the morning calling friends to inform them that as Mark Twain famously wrote, the reports of his death were an exaggeration.

This time, we won’t be so fortunate to hear his familiar voice on the other end of the phone.

Richard E. Lawrence Jr., an unmistakably original personality known simply as Rick, died December 21, 2020 after a period of failing health. As his family has opted for privacy, Rick’s many Hull friends are remembering him fondly today, July 29, which would have been his 68th birthday.

I met Rick 35 years ago, when I was a teenage employee of the Dream Machine video arcade and he had appointed himself the “King of the Beach.” Over the years, he became more than just the dirty-joke-telling, leather-jacket-wearing, pistol-packing, motorcycle-riding boss I first encountered that summer evening on the Nantasket Avenue sidewalk.

He was a very funny, very generous, very loyal friend.

Although he never relocated from his native Central Massachusetts, he quickly adopted Hull, and the town adopted him right back. Most summers, and even during the winter, Rick’s over-the-top personality was a presence around Hull.

“You always knew when Rick was in a room. He loved a good joke … well, not always good, but he loved jokes,” said longtime friend John Reilly. “He loved to buy drinks and pass time with friends after a long day at work. … I'm sure he is enjoying his Johnnie Walker Black and his smelly cigar and just waiting to share his opinion with us of all he has been watching over.”

The namesake of the former Ricky’s ice cream and food stand, Rick also managed the real estate of the Levin family, serving as the landlord’s representative for the beachfront block of stores stretching from the miniature golf course to Dalat. For several years, while the Levins were part owners of the Paragon Carousel, he managed the operation of the historic merry-go-round.

Following the death of his friend Leonard Hersch in 2008, Rick added the historic Fascination bingo game to the businesses he oversaw until the Levin family sold its properties in 2017. His strong work ethic and knowledge of the food-service industry were honed while growing up in his family’s business, the Wigwam restaurant in Worcester -- or, as he pronounced it, “Wiss-tah.” In recent years, he co-owned Maury’s Deli in that city with his brother, Bob.

He was loyal to his friends and frequently gave advice and assistance to his fellow businesspeople in Hull.

Schooner’s Restaurant owner Jacqui Chase said his death “has left a void along the Nantasket Ave. strip.”

“Rick made being in business so much easier,” Chase said this week. “He helped every single place that needed anything. He was a good businessman, he always hired Hull kids, and was my good friend.”

Ken Hackel, who ran the Carousels and Ships gift shop for 30 years, called Rick ”a treasured friend” and talked with him by phone almost daily, long after both had left their usual posts at Nantasket.

“In good times and bad, Rick was there to share the joy or provide comfort when needed. He was trusted -- a rare commodity,” Hackel said this week. “He truly cared about the people close to him. Problems arise? I think I'll give Rick a call. Generous? He would provide whatever and whenever it was needed.”

During his decades in business, he was involved with numerous local organizations, including the chamber of commerce, Nantasket Beach Merchants Association, the Bernie King Pavilion band concerts, and fundraisers of all kinds.

“Although he only lived in town for a short period years ago, he always acted like Hull was his hometown, and he cared very deeply how it was managed and how the future was planned,” said Reilly, a Hull native and select board member who shared memories of Rick at the board’s January 6 meeting. “Of course, he had his own vision of what he thought should happen, and that is where the fun began.”

As Reilly noted, Rick had many opinions on many topics, and he shared them often, regardless of whether his audience seemed willing to hear them.

“Rick was never shy about sharing his opinion on local, state, national, social, economic, or international issues, and he loved a good debate,” Reilly said.

A staunch Republican, Rick enjoyed needling his Democratic friends, who also enjoyed returning the teasing. Reilly recalled that he “took particular pleasure in flying the Republican elephant flag from the mini golf flagpole just to hope someone would notice it.” Very few did. When he returned home from a hospital stay, I messaged him that I was sending him a copy of Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren’s latest book to read while he recovered. “Don’t bother,” he replied. “The wood stove is already full.”

In business, politics, and personal relationships, Rick considered his unwillingness to change his mind as sticking to his guns, but his stubbornness frustrated friends and foes alike. In his world, it was Rick's way, or the highway.

His friends knew that image was not entirely accurate, however.

"I always enjoyed Rick's tough-guy persona, where he’d try to come across as a cynical wise guy who really didn't care about most people or what they thought of him,” former Hull Times Publisher Susan Ovans recalled this week. “That crusty veneer was a sham. Rick cared about the town of Hull, its people and its politics, although he tried valiantly to conceal that affection to bolster his tough-guy image.”

Hackel agreed, noting that Rick’s carefully cultivated image hid his true character.

“He had a gruff exterior but a heart that beat with kindness and caring,” Hackel said. “I could go on, but let me just say to those who knew him casually, you may not truly have ‘known’ Rick the man, but to those of us who considered him family, a knowing nod of agreement.”

“Despite his well-shared conservative opinions, he was actually quite liberal in his dealings with people,” Reilly added. “Once past his gruff exterior, he was actually a teddy bear at heart. He was always quick to offer help, or offer a struggling person or friend-of-a-friend a job. He took it as a great responsibility to teach the hundreds of Hull youths he hired over the years each summer the value and importance not of just having a job, but doing it well.”

I was one of those youths he hired, and Rick frequently reminded me that I owed him a tremendous debt for introducing me to my wife, Marilyn, who also worked for him. We have been married for 24 years, one of the many relationships that grew out of working together at Nantasket Beach. Frequently a matchmaker, he professed to be no fan of marriage, although he tried it once. When Rick attended our wedding, he offered his standard advice for grooms about to take the plunge: He would leave his car outside the ceremony, engine running and gas tank full, ready for a quick getaway if I had a change of heart.

In 2013, complications from an infection led to the amputation of part of his leg and a portion of his hand. He also suffered from heart issues that slowed his perpetual motion.

The man who always seemed indestructible suddenly became mortal.

Although he was no longer affiliated with beachfront businesses, Rick still loved Hull and stayed in frequent contact with his friends. If you missed his call, he would call back often until you connected. In the meantime, he left voicemails that were never straightforward -- they could be a mix of inappropriate jokes, political rants, disguised voices, and a mock broadcast in the loud, staccato style of an old-time radio news reporter. I have at least one of each of these saved on my cell phone.

“I miss his unique perspective on Hull issues and common sense approach to life’s problems,” said Reilly, who frequently got an earful of commentary from Rick on current events.

“Most of all, he cared passionately about and for his friends,” Ovans said of the man she and her husband befriended decades ago. “Roger and I loved him and we miss him."

The last time I spoke with him, he had been arguing with the nurse in the rehab center about his physical therapy schedule and where he could smoke his cigar, or something like that. I don't remember exactly, because I didn't think it would be such a significant conversation. In the months he has been gone, Rick’s absence has been keenly felt.

“Thirty years wasn’t long enough,” Hackel said. “It is said that ‘The greatest casualty is being forgotten.’ Rick will not suffer that fate.”

Each time we talked, I asked him when he was coming around this way again so that we could meet for lunch, just like old times. I knew it wasn't likely to happen, but it gave us something to look forward to, and another reason to pick up the phone when his number popped up on the screen.

I miss that.

I miss him.

Obituary: Marilyn J. Cutcliffe

Marilyn J. Cutcliffe 
Marilyn J. (MacKay) Cutcliffe, of Hingham and formerly of Hull, died July 23 surrounded by her family, after a long courageous battle with lung cancer. Her beautiful life will be forever cherished in the lives of her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and friends.  
She was the loving mother of Laura A. LeBlanc and her husband, Douglas, of Madison, Conn., and Paul C. Cutcliffe III, of Hingham, and the sister of the late Elinor Tobin, Florence Dorgan, Claire Feeney, and Edward MacKay. She was the cherished grandmother of William and Megan LeBlanc. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. 
For many years, Marilyn worked at Brockton Early Intervention Program, until she retired at age 72. She loved living by the ocean, traveling, and, especially, being with her family. She will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew her.  
The funeral Mass will take place in St. Paul’s Church, 147 North St., Hingham, on Thursday at 10 a.m. Cremation will follow. 
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marilyn can be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168. See www.Keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: John H. Hill Jr.

John H. Hill Jr., 55
A friend and brother to many, a hard worker, always willing to lend a helping hand, John H. (“Jack”) Hill Jr., of Hull, died on July 19. He was 55. 
Jack was born on Feb. 22,1966 to the late John H. Hill Sr. and Barbara A. (Roche) Hill and was raised in Sagamore.
He is survived by his loving daughter and best friend, Summer Rose Hill; his sister, Diane Mercaldo, and her husband, John; Daniel Hill and his wife, Michelle; and Nancy Fus and husband, Tony. He also leaves his former wife, Mary Papi-Hill; his faithful dogs Sammy, Layla, Devon, and Daisy; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by siblings James M. Hill and Jayne R. Hill.
A handsome blue-eyed, curly-haired kid with a smile that would light up the world, Jack went through the Bourne school system and is a 1984 graduate. He had many, many friends. 
He worked hard all his life, starting in the masonry business at a young age with his father. He launched his own business, Clean Sweep Chimney, and went on to establish Jack Hill’s Outdoor Living. He was very proud of the patios and outdoor living areas he created for many to enjoy.
Jack loved his beautiful daughter, Summer Rose, the apple of his eye and Daddy’s little girl, as well as the Patriots and Red Sox, beach, boating, taking Summer to concerts and vacationing together, skiing, country music, travel, gardening, and his dogs.  
He had a great personality and could start up a friendship with anyone. His laugh, smile, and jokes were contagious. He had a love of music and the beach. He was a man who would give you the shirt off his back, a man who would pick flowers and vegetables from his garden and give them to anyone. If you needed something, Jack was there to help. 
He wanted the best for everyone and for everyone to be happy. He was a very social butterfly and loved being around his friends and family most. He had a heart of gold and will continue to shine brightly for those who loved and knew him.
Jack, you will never be forgotten; we miss you already.
Visiting hours will be held at Downing Cottage Funeral Chapel 21 Pond St., Hingham, on Saturday, July 31, from 2-5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wellspring Multi-Service Center, 814 Nantasket Ave., Hull, MA 02045. For additional information and online guest book, go to www.downingchapel.com.

Celebration of Life: Christian Joseph Saia

Christian Joseph Saia, 51
Family, friends, and loved ones are invited to a celebration of Christian Joseph Saia’s life on Saturday, Aug. 7, from 1-5 p.m., at the Hull Salt Water Club, 3 Fitzpatrick Way. Please join us for a cookout and share remembrances of Chris.
A resident of Boston and formerly of Hull, he died unexpectedly on April 13. He was 51.
The loving son of Rosemary and Joseph Saia, of Hull, Christian was immensely loved by all who knew him. He is survived by many siblings and loved ones – Richard, Gretchen, Heather, Joseph, Donald, Kevin, Aidan, and Benjamin – and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. 
A graduate of Hull High School, class of 1987, Christian was a bright light in his family’s world and always had the time for a funny line to uplift others. His sense of humor and smile were truly contagious. He was extremely well-read, having a vast knowledge of history, politics, and pop culture. He loved traveling, music of all genres, and Sunday family Italian dinners. As he was growing up on O Street, the beach is where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends through the years. 
For nearly 20 years, Christian enjoyed his career in occupational, environmental, and safety operations for several global companies, including Cashman, Balfour Beatty, and Mott MacDonald. 
Christian will forever be with his family. 

Obituary: Patricia Joan Spillane

Patricia Joan Spillane 
Patricia Joan (Butler) Spillane, of Hull, formerly of West Roxbury, died peacefully on July 20 at the Pat Roche Hospice Home in Hingham.
Born in Boston, she was the daughter of the late Edward H. and Louise N. (Sullivan) Butler and was raised in West Roxbury.
A homemaker, Pat raised her family with love and devotion. A woman of great faith, a devout Catholic, for her it was family that was the most important part of her life. As her family grew, she loved the time she spent with her grandchildren. 
In her spare time, Pat enjoyed gardening, going to Gun Rock beach, socializing, and entertaining her friends and family with her famous turkey dinners, homemade chocolate chip cookies, brownies, and chocolate truffle.
Pat was a loving, generous, and selfless person. She was always accepting, compassionate, and devoted to her family and the people she cared for. Her life lessons are part of her legacy that continues through her family. Pat will be missed by all those she touched.
She was the beloved wife of the late Richard P. Spillane, who died in 1990; together, they shared 32 years of marriage. She was the devoted mother of Richard S. Spillane, of Hull; Karen M. Rowell and her husband, Mark, of Pembroke; Bryanne McGovern and her husband, Stephen, of Southborough; Patricia A. Sinibaldi and her husband, Peter, of New Port Richey, Fla.; Mark B. Spillane and his wife, Lolo, of West Roxbury; John E. Spillane and his wife, Cheryl, of Kingston; and Christopher Spillane and his wife, Jennifer, of Odessa, Fla. She was the dear sister of Louise B. Lyon and her husband, Herbert, of Suffield, Conn.; and the late Edward H. Butler Jr. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Pat’s funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 30, at St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church, 208 Samoset Ave., Hull, at 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Services will conclude with interment in Hull Village Cemetery, Hull.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent in Pat’s name to St. Mary’s of the Assumption Parish, 208 Samoset Ave., Hull, MA 02045.
See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences

Obituary: Ellen Studley Stein

Ellen Studley Stein, 71 
Ellen Studley Stein, who grew up in Hingham, was born April 14, 1950, and died of lung cancer at her home in Waterford, Conn., on April 28, 2020. 
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold R. and Josephine L. Studley, of Hingham; her sister Frances L. Mascioli, of Hingham; and her brother, Arnold A. (“Butch”) Studley, of Whitman. She is survived by her husband, Michael; daughter Joie Poland and her husband, Tom; son Jay Stein and his wife, Jessica; granddaughter Caitlin Henderson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. 
An interment of ashes will be held for Ellen at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 7, at Woodside Cemetery, 550 North Main St., Cohasset.

Obituary: Frances E. Sullivan

Frances E. Sullivan (1956-2021) 
After a valiant 11-year battle with cancer, Frances Elizabeth Sullivan passed away on Saturday, July 3, at her home. 
In life, Francie had an irrepressible spirit, embracing life with vigor until her last days. She was known for her animated laugh, dry wit, and passion for all animals, including birds, tropical fish, turtles, and especially dogs. She was devoted to her two Papillons, Huey and Louis; both were a source of great amusement and companionship. 
As an avid home gardener, Francie created a lush sanctuary brimming with flowers and shrubs of every variety; it was the envy of her neighborhood. Each season she generously shared her bounty with friends and family. 
Francie had a keen collector’s eye and over the decades acquired and catalogued mid-century favorites, including furniture, ceramics, and glassware. 
After graduating from Hull High School, Francie entered the Army in 1974. She was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for meritorious service while assigned to the 120th Aviation Company in Fort Richardson, Alaska. She served her country with distinction as a specialist fourth class and was awarded the certificate in November 1977 as a testimonial to her honest and faithful service. During her tour, she traveled from Texas to Alaska, enjoying the cultural contrasts to her New England upbringing. 
Returning back East, Francie settled in Forestdale and attended Cape Cod Community College, where she pursued a variety of interests. Working at Cape Cod Hospital for more than 30 years, she participated in its electronic medical record initiative and served as union steward for 1199 SEUI, where she promoted and protected the interests of her colleagues. She was a forward-thinking and innovative member of the staff, respected by all. 
As a child, Francie resided in Hull, the daughter of John A. Sullivan Jr. and Dorothy M. (Williams) Sullivan. She is survived by her 10 siblings: Dorothy M. Sullivan, of Silver Spring, Md.; John A. Sullivan III, of Pearland, Texas; Catherine A. Sullivan, of New York City; Christopher P. Sullivan, of Plymouth; Mary P. Sullivan, of Hull; Susan E. Sullivan, of New York City; E. Vincent Sullivan, of Hull; Eugenie M. Sullivan, of Sharon; Robert E. Sullivan, of Lakeville; and Genevieve M. Sullivan, of Hingham. She also leaves 12 nieces and nephews. 
As an expression of sympathy, donations can be made in Francie’s memory to the MSPCA-Angell Clinic of Cape Cod. 

Obituary: William F. Henderson III

William F. Henderson III, 75
William F. Henderson III, of Hull, died peacefully at home on July 17. He was 75. 
The son of the late William F. Henderson Jr. and Beatrice A. (Morgan) Henderson, he was the beloved husband of 52 years to Nancy (Kelley) Henderson. He was loving father of Lisa M. Flaherty and her husband, Michael, of Rockland; William D. Henderson and his wife, Jennifer, of Scituate; Patrick K. Henderson and his wife, Trish, of Southington, Conn.; and Julie M. Henderson, of Scituate. He was proud “Grampy” of Michael Flaherty, Ryan Henderson, Kelsey Henderson, Erin Flaherty, Connor Henderson, Alexa Henderson, Abigail Henderson, and James Henderson. 
He was the brother of Daniel M. Henderson and his wife, Serena, of Norwood; Mary B. Henderson and her late wife, Ellen Torpey, of West Yarmouth; John P. Henderson and his wife, Kathy, of Milton; Elizabeth M. Henderson and her husband, Ned Martin, of Schenectady, N.Y.; James A. Henderson and his wife, Kathy, of Randolph; Matthew J. Henderson of Champaign, Ill.; Stephen A. Henderson and his late wife, Carol Lee, of Readville; Phillip W. Henderson and his late wife, Rita, of Pocasset; Sarah Gale and her husband, Malcolm, of Jamaica Plain; and the late George K. Henderson and Roseanne Sullivan and her surviving husband, William Sullivan, of Charlestown, N.H. 
He is also survived by many aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws and many dear friends.
Bill earned his bachelor’s degree from Boston State College and his master’s degree in public administration from Suffolk University. He enjoyed a long and successful career in hospital administration and public relations, serving as executive director of the Foundation with Carney Hospital, Quincy City Hospital, and Mattapan Hospital. 
He proudly served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam where he was awarded the Bronze Star. He was a past commander and quartermaster of VFW Hull Post and vice chairman and chairman of DAV Post. 
He was a member of the Hull Board of Registrars and served as the South District president of The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Council of Boston. He was a recipient of Cheverus Medal by the Archdiocese of Boston. Faith was central to Bill’s life, and he was an active member of St. Mary’s Parish, Hull.
A Celebration of Life service will be held in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St., Hingham, at 9 a.m. on Thursday, prior to the funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church, Hull, at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Hull Village Cemetery. 
See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.

Obituary: Barbara C. Ratliff

Barbara C. Ratliff
Barbara C. (Lurie) Ratliff, of Eatonton, Ga., originally from Hull, died July 11.  
Barbara graduated from Hull High School with the class of 1967. She loved going to the beach and playing mahjong and was a member of two book clubs. She was also a great cook.
She a caring and organized woman and will be missed by all who knew her.  
The daughter of the late David and Marilyn (Winn) Lurie, she was the beloved wife of Wade Ratliff, of Eatonton, Ga., and the loving mother of Michael Cabe and his wife, Amanda, of Georgia. 
She was the cherished sister of Gary Lurie and Deborah Lurie and the devoted grandmother of Anderson Crockett and Brendan Cabe. She is also survived by one niece and close cousins.  See www.Keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Vanessa Teresa Townsend

Vanessa Teresa Townsend, 46
Vanessa Teresa Townsend, formerly of Hull, lost her battle with cancer and gently fell asleep into eternal rest surrounded by her family and friends. She was 46.
Born in Boston, she lived most of her life in Hull. Vanessa was the daughter of the late Frances DiVendra Viola. She leaves behind her two greatest loves, her sons Christopher Townsend, of Martha’s Vineyard, and Joseph Townsend, of Franklin; her beloved sisters, Danielle Lavoie and her husband, Andre, of Hingham, and Lilla Moore and her husband, Joshua, of Quincy; and her brothers Michael Viola and his wife, Kristen, of Norwell, and Richard Viola, of Hull. She also leaves her grandmother, Mama Teresa DiVendra, of Weymouth, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews with whom she shared close relationships. 
Vanessa loved music; you could often find her with her headphones on singing along loudly. Spending time with family and friends was her greatest joy. She will always be fondly remembered for her infectious laughter and her enormous loving heart.
Calling hours will be held for relatives and friends on Thursday, July 15, from 4-8 p.m., at the Downing Funeral Chapel, 21 Pond St. Hingham. Interment will be held at a later date, at the family cabin in upstate New York.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Jimmy Fund for Childhood Cancer. https://www.jimmyfund.org/ways-to-give/memorial-and-tribute-gifts/
For additional information and online guest book, go to www.downingchapel.com