Richard Dennis Corey

Richard Corey was born in Portland on November 10, 1944, the son of Sterling and Frances (Cavallaro) Corey. He spent his childhood moving around the Portland area, growing up on Carey Lane in a part of Munjoy Hill that was known as "Little Italy" at the time. Later in life, Richard resided in the East and North Deering neighborhoods.

Richard had a deep love for sports. Unfortunately, a misdiagnosis of a heart condition at a young age prevented him from playing sports with his friends. Despite this setback, Richard harbored a dream of becoming a sports announcer. He was always known for his humorous personality and was considered the class clown. This aspect of his character was so prominent that in his 1963 high school yearbook, he jokingly listed himself as "participating" in every activity that Portland High School offered. In his later years, Richard wore the funniest graphic shirts. These shirts were not only amusing but also served as excellent conversation starters, and would make you LOL (laugh out loud).

Richard had many hobbies and particularly enjoyed spending time with his friends, whether it was simply catching up with his best friend, Jimmy or playing golf with his other best friend Derek during the summer. Summers in Maine found Richard and his family savoring both the lively scene at Old Orchard and the quieter beauty of Crescent Beach. He also had a knack for gardening and loved cultivating seasonal flowers in his yard. Showing his compassionate side, Richard dedicated many years to volunteering at Preble Street, consistently arriving early at 5 am to help those less fortunate. While he appreciated these pursuits, his greatest joy came from indulging in his favorite foods.

Growing up in an Italian household, he deeply cherished the Sunday suppers his mother would prepare, which were often lavish spreads featuring spaghetti and meatballs alongside other dishes reminiscent of a Thanksgiving feast in their abundance. Beyond his hobbies and love for food, the true love of his life was his wife Peggy. However, a close second was his unwavering passion for watching the Boston Celtics. His enthusiasm for the team was so intense that, according to local lore, residents as far north as Caribou, Maine, could supposedly hear his cheers or complaints during their games.

He was predeceased by his mother and father; sister Patty; brothers Robert and Edward; nephews Gregory and David Collins. He is survived by his wife Peggy of Portland; sister-in-law Janet (Jonathan) of Stonington, CT.; brother Stephen (Philomina) of Gorham; sister-in-law Bea of South Portland; his children Darren (Lisa) of Gorham; Brian (Tina) of Poland; Jill (Marty) of Gorham, Jessie (Joe) of Newburyport, MA; his grandchildren Alexa, Nate, Mitchell, Rylan, Sophia, and Giana (Gigi), and all of his friends at Northfield Green.

Richard was a fighter who bravely endured over 15 different medical diagnoses in the last decade of his life. Despite these challenges, he never lost his will to live, fueled by his enjoyment of life and a strong faith in God. The family expresses their sincere gratitude to the numerous healthcare providers who supported Richard, including Maine Medical Center, Martin's Point Health Care, Northern Lights Mercy Cancer Care, MaineHealth Wound Care, The Cedars Portland, Hospice of Southern Maine, North Deering Portland Fire Department, and individual doctors Buchanan, Parnes, and Connolly, as well as all the dedicated nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers who ensured he was always well-cared for, even if he occasionally grumbled about the food.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford Street, Portland, ME, with a Burial at Calvary Cemetery to follow. A reception will be held at Italian Heritage Center, 40 Westland Ave., Portland, ME following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org