Richard Gardner, age 81, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, at Sunrise of Cohasset, Massachusetts.
Born on January 30, 1945, Richard lived a life defined by devotion to family and a love of the ocean.
Richard grew up in Caldwell, New Jersey, moving to Massachusetts after college. He married his wife, Joanne, in 1976, and together they raised their children, Bryant, Mark, Chuck, and Lisa, in Hingham. Joanne and Richard later moved to New Hampshire before finally retiring in The Villages, Florida.
In 1981, Rich co-founded a recruiting agency where he was known for his business acumen, professionalism, and ability to find the perfect person for the job. He made a difference to everyone he touched. He was able to thrive in economic booms, and survive financial hardships for 30 years in the business.
He found joy in spending time with his family, who remember walks at World’s End with beloved dogs, racing his Hobie Cat in Mattapoisett, trips skiing in the mountains of New Hampshire, and fishing with grandchildren in the North River of Marshfield. He always said that life is about people and the close connections we have with one another, and he lived his life that way. Friends and family will remember him for his easy smile, hearty laugh, good nature, and kind soul.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Jack Gardner, and his sister, Ellen Kirch. He leaves behind his brother, John Gardner, sons Bryant Gardner (Kim Cooper), Mark Cordeiro (Lee Bryars), Chuck (Bonnie) Cordeiro, daughter Lisa (Mike) Bard, as well as grandchildren, Victoria, Chase, Zachary, Amanda, Stella, Bessie, and Pearl.
We also thank the staff at Sunrise of Cohasset for taking great care of Richard in his final year.
Friends and family will gather for a Celebration of Life for both Rich and Joanne, 11 am, Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Hingham Congregational Church – 378 Main Street, Hingham, Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association of America.
For more information and online guestbook please go to www.downingchapel.com