Richard Edward Whicker

Richard was born in Jersey City, NJ on March 7, 1934 to Cornelius and Beatrice Whicker. He married Phyllis Michalsky in 1958. He earned his Master's Degree in Business Education from Seton Hall University in 1967. After moving to Toms River, he began teaching in the Jackson School District, where he worked for over 25 years, retiring as Assistant Superintendent in 1995. Richard and Phyllis celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in May 2023.

A deeply devoted husband, loving father and doting grandfather, Richard's greatest joy in this life was his family. He had a soft spot for animals, and his heart and home always had room for one more rescued dog. Throughout his adult life, Richard was active in Christ Episcopal Church, his strong baritone anchoring the choir. He loved choral music and was an accomplished vocalist, often asked to sing solos at wedding services. He was also a loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Seton Hall basketball team.

Richard is survived by his wife Phyllis; sister Cornelia (Sommers); children Richard Whicker, Jr. (Tina), Donald Whicker, and Amy Perna-Whicker (Nichole); and grandchildren Zoe Whicker and Jayden Perna. He is preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Beatrice (Smith), Doris (Ernst), and Joan (McNally); and granddaughter Karley Perna-Whicker.

Visitation is Sunday, June 4 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home in Toms River, NJ. Funeral Mass will be held at Christ Episcopal Church in Toms River at 11:00 am on Monday, June 5.