Richard F. Bernard

It is with great sadness we announce that Richard F. Bernard, age 42, of Merrimac, MA, passed at Lahey Medical Center in Burlington on July 22, 2026.

Born in Newburyport, MA on January 6, 1984, he was the son of Shawn A. Bernard and Jennifer (Hewett) Waldrep.

Richard was a graduate of Triton Regional High School where he made many lifelong friends. After graduating, he worked at Opportunity Works where he thrived as an individual. Richard enjoyed the various responsibilities he had, along with the many connections he had made. Richard was an amusement park enthusiast and considered Canobie Lake Park to be a second home. He created countless memories with friends and family as his truest, happiest self always came out within the park. He was passionate about roller coasters and amusement rides, knowing every detail down to the inch. He also had a love for Legos, often being found making giant Lego masterpieces while jamming out to Elton John or the Beach Boys.

Not often do we find people who change the world like Richard has. His infectious laughter, sweet smile and giant hugs will be incredibly missed by all those lucky enough to know him.

He is survived by his mother Jennifer Waldrep and Step-father Michael Waldrep of Salisbury, MA, his grandmother Alma Hewett of Hampton, NH, step-grandmother, Ann Waldrep of Methuen, MA, his sister Jacqueline Waldrep of Salisbury, MA, uncle Jay Hewett of Concord, NH, aunt Jill Hewett of Hampton, NH, cousins Ashleigh Kennedy and Kelsey Weiner of Hampton, NH, Daniel Hewett and wife Sarah, of Sandown, NH along with extended family and dear friends. He is predeceased by his grandfather, Malcolm J Hewett of Hampton, NH and step-grandfather, Clifton Waldrep of Methuen, MA.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 from 2 P.M. to 4 P.M. at Paul C. Rogers Family Funeral Home, 2 Hillside Avenue, Amesbury, MA. Services to immediately follow. Donations in memory of Richard F. Bernard can be made to the American Training Inc., 6 Campanelli Drive, Andover, MA 01810.