Richard Joseph Mendes

Richard J. Mendes, age 60, of North Dartmouth, Massachusetts, passed away suddenly on Saturday, October 18, 2025. A devoted family man, he was the beloved husband of Debra (Ferry) Mendes for 35 years and the proud father of Colby, Charlotte, and Olivia.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Richard spent most of his life in Massachusetts, where he built a life centered around family, love, and hard work. A graduate of Newbury College, he worked as a physical therapist for 32 years and was currently employed at Professional Physical Therapy Clinic in Dartmouth, MA. Richard was deeply dedicated to his patients and took great pride in helping them become healthier, stronger, and more independent and productive in their daily lives.

Richard grew up with a lifelong love of sports. Known for his adventurous spirit, he was a true daredevil who never turned down a challenge. From water skiing and winter skiing to skydiving, Richard embraced every opportunity to live life to the fullest. A skilled golfer, he cherished every round he played with family and friends. A dedicated New England sports fan and season ticket holder for the New England Patriots, Richard loved attending games with friends and family. As a devoted father, he proudly coached his son in both football and baseball, sharing his love and knowledge of the game with him and with many other children from the community. He was also a loyal Providence College Friars fan, he especially enjoyed attending basketball games with his family.

More than anything, Richard loved his family and friends. He proudly embraced his role as the “big brother” and was always the one others could count on—caring for and looking out for everyone around him. He cherished time spent on Martha's Vineyard, Florida, New Hampshire, Prudence Islands and close friends backyards. In addition to his wife and children, Richard is survived by his mother, Dawn Sylvia, and his mother-in-law, Joanne Ferry. He also leaves behind two brothers, Mark Sylvia and Gerald Sylvia (Amy), and five sisters, Toni D’Agostino, Janet Devine (Peter), Stephanie Salisbury (Matthew), Kristina Hogan (Timothy), and Cindy Labins (Charles). Richard leaves his brother-in-law, Randall Ferry (Aida) and sister-in-law, Donna Hickman (William). He was a cherished uncle to seventeen nieces and nephews.

Richard’s love of animals will be fondly remembered. Throughout his life, he rescued many dogs, giving each one a loving and caring home.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Visitation on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 4 to 7pm in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Rd., Dartmouth. A Prayer and Celebration of Life Service will begin at 5:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, a cause close to Rich’s heart in honor of the many family members and friends whose lives have been impacted by cancer.