Richard W. Thomson

74, passed away unexpectedly in his backyard garden on November 10, 2021, the Marine Corps’ 246th birthday.

Born in 1947, the son of Arthur and Vera (Millard) Thomson, Richard grew up in East Providence, and was a member of the East Providence High School Class of 1965.  After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was deployed Santo Domingo in 1965 and to Vietnam in 1968, where he was gravely wounded in battle but survived, and went on to live a long life filled with family, friends, pets and gardens.

He received a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Rhode Island College in 1996, and a Master’s Degree in History from Providence College in 1999.

He resided for many years in Fall River, Massachusetts. In 1987 he helped to establish the Veterans Association of Bristol County, where he served on the board for many years.  He was always proud to be a Marine, and was the second of 3 generations of Marines in the Thomson family, following his father Arthur, and followed by his son, Ross.

After moving to Johnston, RI in 2007, he spent his time creating his beautiful gardens, where he planted trees and grew copious amounts of flowers and vegetables.  He loved being outdoors with his cats and dogs, feeding the birds, and working in the gardens while enjoying the fresh air.

He leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Debra (DiFranco) Thomson. He is survived by his son Ross Thomson and his wife Nicole, and his beloved grandson Bowen Thomson.  He is also survived by his stepson, Christopher Gormley and his wife Patricia. He was the stepfather of the late Matthew P. Gormley.  He is also survived by several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and their families.

He was the brother of the late Linda R. Reynolds (Thomson), wife of Henry.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his VISITING HOURS Friday, November 26, 2021 from 9-11am in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Richard’s memory be made to Operation Stand Down Rhode Island. https://osdri.charityproud.org/Donate