Richard W. Purrington

CHESTERFIELD- Richard W. Purrington, 90, of Main Road in Chesterfield, MA, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Thursday, May 8, 2025, his daughters holding his hands. Richard was born in Northampton, a son of the late Rollo and Marion (Herter) Purrington. He was educated in local schools, graduating from High School in 1953. He enlisted in the US Air Force, attaining the rank of S/Sgt. He served with the 494th Fighter Bomber Squadron overseas for two years and later stationed at Manhattan AF Station in New York. He returned home, settling in Chesterfield to raise his family. He worked as an Engineer with Pratt & Whitney in Connecticut and had earlier worked for Kollmorgen and at Cape Canaveral on several sensitive, high clearance projects. Richard was a former member of The First Churches in Northampton and enjoyed singing in the church choir. He enjoyed traveling, especially taking long motorcycle rides throughout the country. Richard leaves his children: Richard W. Purrington, Jr (Debra) of Winchester, VA., April L. Zeledon (Jerry) of Port St. Lucie, FL., Scott J. Purrington (Shari) of Marvin, NC., and Andrea P. Long (Chip) of St. Charles, MO., seven grandchildren, a great-grandchild on the way, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings: Barry and Bruce Purrington.

The family will receive friends at Ahearn Funeral Home, 783 Bridge Rd., Northampton on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. followed by a service at the Funeral Home at 11:00 A.M. with Jack Cooper officiating. Burial with USAF Honors will follow in High Street Cemetery, Haydenville, MA.

Donations in Richard’s memory may be made to the Chesterfield Council on Aging, 400 Main Rd., P.O. Box 7, Chesterfield, MA. 01012.