Richard S. Wallace

Richard S. Wallace, 82, of Plainfield Pike, Greene, passed away Monday, July 22, 2024, at home with his family by his side.

He was the beloved husband of Catherine A. (Cherubino) Wallace. They had been married for 62 years. Born in Silver Creek, NY, to the late Margaret (Sharron) Greco and Lester Wallace. He shared a special bond with his grandparents, Frank and Marion Sharron, whom he credited with helping to raise him and making life enjoyable for him as a child.

Besides his wife he leaves a son, Ronald F. “Ronnie” Wallace, of Coventry, a granddaughter, Rene C. Wallace, and a sister, Beverly Styborski. He was father of the late Richard F. Wallace.

He was a proud US Marine who moved to Rhode Island in 1960 and began his career in the textile and manufacturing industry. Spending the last 26 years at Leviton Mfg. in Warwick before retiring from management in 2004. For most of his working career he worked two jobs to provide for his family.  He was highly respected for his stellar work ethic and ability to work with everyone.

Dad had many interests and hobbies, He kept a meticulous yard filled with vegetable and flower gardens.  He enjoyed making cement products and bird houses that would adorn the yard making a sanctuary for many birds and animals. He loved animals, having many Basset Hounds and cats during his lifetime. Over the years he owned many Harley Davidson motorcycles and numerous classic cars.

He was perhaps best known for his passion for growing giant pumpkins.  He was a legend in the hobby, being respected and admired by many growers around the world.  He would help new growers get started with seeds and advice and was always there to help anyone who had an interest in growing pumpkins.  His crowning achievements in the hobby was his 2015 North American Championship at 2261 pounds and his induction into the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth Hall of Fame in 2008. His ideas and leadership helped the Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Growers become one of the top Clubs in the world.

Dad always believed in giving back to your local community.  He started his Orange Angels foundation, and for 12 years he would sell giant pumpkin seeds to interested growers. The proceeds were used to buy winter coats for underprivileged children in the town of West Warwick.

Born and raised in Silver Creek, New York, 28 miles from Buffalo on the shores of Lake Erie, he was a passionate and loyal Buffalo Bills fan.  Although they have “yet” to win it all, he was always optimistic about the upcoming season. Go Bills!

Above all his biggest enjoyment in life was the love he had for his family. His wife Cathy, his sons, Ron and the late Richard, along with his pride and joy, his granddaughter Rene.

We would like to thank the many doctors and nurses for providing excellent care.  Special thanks to Dr. Austin of Westerly Hospital, Dr. Daniel Collins, Fresenius Kidney Center and Beacon Hospice Care.

His funeral will be held Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. from the PRATA-GALLOGLY Funeral Home, 78 Providence Street, West Warwick. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. in Sacred Heart Church, 820 Providence Street, West Warwick. Interment will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visiting hours Tuesday 4:00-7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions to Amedisys Hospice Care, 1130 Ten Rod Road, Suite A204, North Kingstown, RI 02852 in his memory would be appreciated.  Information and condolences please visit:  www.PrataGallogly.com

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