DANVERS-Richard “Rich” Manuel Figurido, 52, passed away on March 30, 2023, surrounded by loving family and friends, leaving behind a trail of laughter, joy, and inspiration. Born on March 20, 1971 to Jo-Ann (Fortado) Figurido and the late Bruce Figurido, Rich was a talented carpenter by trade, but his passion lay in performing for a crowd.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sarah Figurido, and his children, Justin Figurido, Joely Figurido, and Emerson Figurido. He is also survived by his mother, Jo-Ann Figurido, his brother Bruce Figurido and his wife Maria, his niece and nephew Isabella and Bruce Figurido, his father and mother-in-law Eric and Catherine Emerson, sisters-in-law, Lauren Lamoly and Riley Mercier, his close friends Wayne Moda and Jeffery Fraser, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Rich also leaves behind a wonderful co-parent to Justin, Kathleen Figurido and co-parent to Joely, Donna Anastasi. He was predeceased by his father, Bruce Figurido, his brother Jonathan Figurido, his cousin J.J. Nicastro, his paternal grandparents Richard M. and Winifred N. (Parker) Figurido, his maternal grandmother, Vincie (Orlando) Fortado and close friend Peter DiStefano.
Rich was a man of many talents, but his greatest gift was his voice. He was a natural vocal talent and lit up the stage whenever he performed. Fans flocked to see him play, and even those who stumbled upon his shows were left in awe of his raw energy and charisma. He was the whole package – good looks, talent, confidence, and drive – and he touched the lives of tens of thousands through music.
But more than that, Rich was a great person and a friend to many. He always went the extra mile, both in his work as a carpenter and in his relationships. He was compassionate, loving, and always made time to listen and talk to people. Even in the hospital, he would ask about the nurses’ day and make them feel seen and heard. His infectious personality drew people to him, and his generosity knew no bounds. He went the extra mile and would do carpentry jobs for gratis for some, just because that was the type of guy he was.
Rich was most proud to be the father of his children – Justin, Joely, and Emmy. He loved them deeply and cherished every moment he spent with them. He was so excited to marry Sarah, his wife, in his last weeks, and was so grateful to her for sticking by him through his illness. He knew he wouldn’t have made it this far without her. Over their 11 year relationship, they shared not just a partnership, but a true friendship and love of laughter, music, and the beach.
As a musician and a friend, Rich was a force of nature. He played thousands of shows over his lifetime, and Rich’s philosophy of putting passion before the plan was something that inspired his friends and gave them confidence in their own abilities. Rich wanted others to be their best selves in musicianship, and helped his friends grow— he gave them the courage and space to become better performers.
Rich loved children and was always eager to help them. He volunteered his time to make a difference in their lives, and he cherished the children in his own family. He was an incredible father, and the way he lit up when he talked about his kids was a testament to the depth of his love for them.
During his last days while facing his mortality, Rich was still cracking jokes with his quick wit. He always wanted to make people laugh because that was who he was – an entertainer. Although his passing is a great loss to his family, friends, and fans, his legacy will live on in the memories he created and the joy he brought to the world. Rest in peace, Rich – the world is a little less bright without you, but we will always remember the light you brought into our lives.
A celebration of life will be held in Rich’s honor on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, from 4-8PM with a brief service at 6PM at the Danversport Yacht Club in the Harborview Ballroom, 161 Elliott St, Danvers. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Rich’s name to the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center at https://tinyurl.com/MGHCancer. Online directions and condolences are available at www.LyonsFuneral.com
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