Rick Messina Passes Away

Richard Bruce Messina, of Wakefield, formerly of Danvers and Reading, passed away on Monday, July 3. He was 58 years of age.

Born in Malden and raised in Reading, he was the son of Marjorie A. (Jones) Messina of Reading, and the late Fred R. Messina. Richard was a member of the First Baptist Church of Reading, and had served as the Church Custodian for many years.

“Rick,” as he was known to his family and friends, had worked as a driver for Meals on Wheels, and was loved by all his clients. Rick was an avid pool player, and loved to take long walks with his friends and family around his neighborhood and lake Quannapowitt. He also enjoyed watching sports, especially watching basketball and football with his sister and mother. Rick was a devoted and loving son, brother, uncle and nephew, who loved spending time with his family and friends.

In addition to his mother Marjorie, Rick is survived by his sister, Karen E. Messina-Perez of Reading; and his brother, Robert W. Messina and his wife Milce of Westwood. He is also survived by his four nieces, Gabriella, Victoria, Virginia, and Marissa; his aunts and uncles, Arline Leman, Ann & Frank Silva, and Josie Tabacco; and many cousins.

Visiting hours will be at the Douglass, Edgerley & Bessom Funeral Home, 25 Sanborn St. (cor. of Woburn St.) in Reading on Friday evening from 4-8 pm. A funeral service will be held at the First Baptist Church, 45 Woburn St., Reading on Saturday, July 8 at 11 am. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard’s memory may be made to the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, 585 Lebanon St., Melrose, MA 02176.