Richard E. Crompton

RUTLAND -Richard E. Crompton, 78, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, March 21, 2025. Born and raised in Worcester, Richard was the son of Thomas A. and Marjorie F. (Johnson) Crompton and spent the last 54 years making Rutland his cherished home.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Randy Lee (Hubbard) Crompton; three children, Christine B. Hazen of Holden, son Richard J. Crompton of Rutland, and daughter Jennifer A. Jennings Horstman and her husband, Alan of Jefferson,; his brothers, Charles S. Crompton and his wife, Jill of Derry, NH, and Douglas B. Crompton and his wife, Laura of Webster. He was the proud grandfather of Tyler Benjamin Russo and his wife, Ashley, Ethan Jeffrey Hazen, Emily Wynter Hazen, Carter William Horstman, and Samuel Fredrick Horstman; and the doting great-grandfather of Reina Marie Russo and Axil Anthony Russo. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, as well as his brothers, Thomas C. and twin Robert S. Crompton, and his sisters, Marilyn C. Sharron and Winifred F. Gendron.

Richard was a man of honor and integrity. After graduating from South High School and Worcester Industrial Technical Institute, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served with distinction for 22 years. As a member of the Navy Seabees, he completed two tours of duty in Vietnam. It was during a leave from the service at home, that Richard met Randy Lee, who was in the choir. Years later, their paths crossed again, and they fell in love, marrying on August 22, 1970, at Wesley United Methodist Church. In 1972, Richard fulfilled a lifelong dream, building a home for his family in Rutland from plans he had designed in high school, a testament to his skill and dedication.

A master carpenter, Richard worked tirelessly for over 62 years. He was a respected member of Carpenters Union Local 336 in Worcester for over 50 years. His love for craftsmanship was evident in everything he built, whether for work or for the joy of creating. A man of deep faith and service, he was a member of the First Congregational Church of Rutland, a bell ringer in the Bell Choir and served on the Prudential Committee. His community involvement extended to the Rutland Lions Club, where he twice served as King Lion and was honored with the prestigious Melvin Jones and Joseph J. Camarada awards. Richard also found great joy in mentoring young minds as a Webelos leader in Rutland.

After retiring, Richard and Randy Lee embarked on an unforgettable two-month journey across the United States, covering 12,251 miles together. He had a curious and creative mind, enjoying hobbies such as cribbage, photography, stained glass, and crafting intricate wooden puzzles. He even designed and made a stunning three-dimensional quilt. However, the greatest joy in his life was his family. Home was where his heart was, and nothing made him happier than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, sharing laughter, wisdom, and love.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Richard's family from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 28, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 29, at the First Congregational Church, 264 Main St., Rutland. Burial will follow at Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New England Botanic Gardens @ Tower Hill, 11 French Drive, Boylston, MA 01505-1008, or the First Congregational Church of Rutland, 264 Main Street, Rutland, MA 01543, or to the Lions Club of Rutland, King Lion, P.O. Box 626, Rutland, MA 01543, in honor of Richard's generous spirit and lifelong dedication to helping others.

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