Richard E. Roberts

Richard Roberts Sr., a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran and longtime resident of Amesbury, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the age of 85. He was the devoted husband of the late Barbara Ann (Dunn) Roberts, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage until her passing in 2022.

Born March 28, 1941, and raised in Salem, Richard met his beloved Barbara in Peabody, and they married on July 22, 1962. Together they raised their three children in Amesbury after moving there in 1973. He is survived by his children, Richard “Skip” Jr., Donna, and Peter and their spouses; as well as three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Richard served his country as a Marine, bringing the discipline and precision of his sharp shooter training into his family life in memorable ways. His children fondly recall him teaching them to shoot at a young age, patiently passing along the skills and safety he learned in the Corps. A skilled Ford mechanic by trade, he loved tackling projects around the home and once built his children a go-cart out of lawn mower parts, delighting them with his ingenuity and hands-on creativity.

In retirement, Richard found great joy in gardening and raising chickens alongside his wife Barbara. The two shared a passion for growing vegetables and beautiful flowers, tending their garden with care and often sharing the bounty with family, friends, and neighbors.

Richard was a hardworking, resourceful man who took pride in providing for his family and teaching his children practical skills. His quiet strength, love of family, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

The family will cherish the many memories of Richard’s Marine-honed precision, mechanical wizardry, and the peaceful hours spent gardening with Babsie. He is now at rest with his beloved wife, watching over those he loved.

The wake/visiting hours (no funeral service) will be held at Roger’s Funeral Home 2 Hillside Avenue, in Amesbury Friday, May 8th from 4-7pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice, such as one supporting veterans or local libraries, in keeping with the family’s values.