Richard J. Sturges

Loving husband, father, and proud veteran

Richard James Sturges, 76, passed away on Thursday, April 2nd at SIUH from complications caused by the Coronavirus. Richie was born on April 7, 1943 on Staten Island to late parents Ruth and Franklin (Jim) Sturges. He was a graduate of Curtis High School, attended The College of Staten Island, and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy serving during the Vietnam War aboard USS Charles S. Sperry DD 697.

Richie resided in Sunnyside and was a long-time parishioner of St. Teresa’s Parish. He was a loving husband and father and is survived by his wife of 53 years, Irene Molloy Sturges and their four children: Brian Sturges and wife Dawn, Kevin Sturges and wife Adrienne, Amy Smith and husband Jeremy, and Maureen Bertan and husband John. Richie was a beloved grandfather to his seven grandchildren: Kaely, Maeve, Clare, Kieran, Brennan, Christopher, and Ryan. He also leaves behind a sister Lynne VonSchondorf and a brother, Robert.

Richie was known for his good sense of humor and his patriotism. He will have a private Rite of Committal at St. Peter’s Cemetery. A funeral mass in celebration of his life will be held at a later date, when health restrictions are lifted.