Richard P. Fournier

Richard P. Fournier, age 71, passed away on February 5, 2026, at home after a long illness surrounded by his loving family. His family was his devoted primary caregivers which allowed Richard to remain in his home during his chronic illness and end of life care.

Born on July 8, 1954, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Richard was a lifelong resident of the city. He was the beloved son of the late Armand J. Fournier and Evelyn (Rogers) Fournier. Richard graduated from New Bedford High School. After high school he enlisted in the US Coast Guard as a Seaman secondary to his love of the ocean and serving others.

Richard "Rick” dedicated 28 years of his life to serving the community as a firefighter from 1980-2008 with the New Bedford Fire Department. He retired as a fire inspector for the city of New Bedford. He was referred to fondly as “Frenchie” to his fellow firefighters. Even in retirement he listened daily to his scanner following the emergency incidents of the city.

He is survived by his son, Shawn Fournier; his daughter, Sherri Starkie, and her husband, Michael; and his loving companion, Judith Jabotte. He also leaves behind his stepchildren, William Jabotte and Judith Miranda, with her husband, Bruce. Richard was a cherished grandfather to Trinity Fournier, Shaylin and Ashlyn Starkie, as well as step-grandfather to Noah, Luke, and Drew Miranda. He is also survived by his sisters, Jacqueline Charron and her husband, Scott, and Christine Rebelo. He was predeceased by his sister, Suzanne Fournier. Richard is fondly remembered by several nieces, nephews and friends.

Richard had a deep love for music, especially classic rock of the 60’s and 70’s. He worked as a Disc Jockey and was the former owner of Rick's Rainbow of Memories record store. He helped organize and was a member of a local record club that hosted fundraising events for local charities called “Putting on the Hits”. He was an avid collector, with interests ranging from cards and stamps to models and records.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Southcoast Hospice for their care and support.

Visiting hours will be held at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A funeral service will take place at the same venue on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 11:00 am, followed by a burial at Pine Grove Cemetery, 1100 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford.

Flowers are welcome, or donations can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4550 Montgomery Ave., Suite 1100 N, Bethesda, MD 20814 in Richard’s memory in honor of his sister Suzanne who passed away from cystic fibrosis.