Richard F. Preble

Richard F. Preble, age 92, lifelong resident of West Newbury, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, May 14, 2026, at Benchmark of Haverhill Crossing, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in West Newbury, MA on January 29, 1934, he was the eldest of two sons of the late Earle N. Preble and Veronica M. (Drapola) Preble. Richard was predeceased by his brother Frederick Preble. He was a graduate of the class of 1951 from the Central School in West Newbury.

Following his graduation, Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Upon returning home he went on to earn his degree in Electrical Engineering. He dedicated 32 years of his professional life as an engineer for Avco/Textron, contributing significantly to the defense industry.

Richard was a family man who was dedicated to his wife, Leona, married for 67 years, who passed away February 29, 2024. Richard’s life was full of treasured memories that will be cherished by his children, Robert Preble and wife Mary, Timothy Preble, Brenda Muraca and her companion Mario Luca, and Dwayne Preble and his wife Lisa. Richard was proud of his seven grandchildren, Christine, Elizabeth, Alexander, Angela, Emily, Tiffany and Samantha and his six great grandchildren. He was a sincere and loyal friend to many throughout his life.

Richard was a lifelong Boy Scout having recently received his 80 year award for service to Scouting. After achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in his youth he would go on to be the Scoutmaster in West Newbury for over 30 years. He also served the local council in many volunteer roles.

Alongside Leona, Richard was a familiar and welcome face throughout West Newbury and St. Ann’s Church, where the couple spent decades volunteering together.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 4 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Paul C. Rogers Family Funeral Home, 2 Hillside Avenue, Amesbury, MA 01913. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at St. Ann’s Church, 300 Main Street, West Newbury, MA 01985 at 10:30 A.M. followed by a Graveside Service at Bridge Street Cemetery, where Richard will be reunited with his loving wife Leona for eternity. In lieu of flowers please donate to the West Newbury Council on Aging - SAGE Center 381 Main Street, West Newbury, MA 01985.