Richard Hugh McQuarrie, Sr.

Richard McQuarrie, born July 10, 1939, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home in Flemington, New Jersey, on December 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Bonnie McQuarrie, and their three children: Rick McQuarrie, Ryan McQuarrie, and Shannon McQuarrie-Ross. He is also survived by his daughters-in-law, Mary McQuarrie and Jennifer McQuarrie, and his son-in-law, Grant Ross. Richard was a proud and loving grandfather to eight adored grandchildren: Marin, Maeve, and Dolan; Olivia and Ryan; Liam; Finn; and Lucy. He was also a loving uncle to many cherished nieces and nephews.

Richard was predeceased by his father, Allen McQuarrie; his mother, Helen McQuarrie; and his brothers, Allen and Thomas McQuarrie.

Richard was very proud of his service in the Old Guard of the United States Army, serving honorably from 1961 to 1963. As part of the Old Guard, he participated in the funeral of President John F. Kennedy, an experience he regarded with deep respect and lasting pride.

Following his military service, Richard dedicated his life to his family, his friends, and his work in the optical business, approaching everything he did with care, precision, and integrity. He was a gifted woodworker who expressed his love through the beautiful creations he crafted and generously gifted to those who touched his life. His many passions included hunting, gardening, bocce, cooking, dining out, traveling, and, most importantly, spending time with friends.

Richard lived his life with a quiet perfectionism and extraordinary attention to detail, taking pride in everything, he did, no matter how small. Whatever task was before him, he believed that doing things well was a way of showing care and respect for the world around him. He was deeply considerate of others, a loyal and thoughtful friend, and someone whose forgiving and easy-going nature made people feel comfortable and accepted. His love of nature was evident in the way he noticed its beauty and found peace in it, often drawing inspiration from it in his art and daily life. Through his kindness, craftsmanship, and gentle presence, he left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Above all else, his greatest loves were his family and his faith. He was devoted to his wife, standing by her with unwavering dedication, love, and respect throughout their life together. As a father, he was steady, supportive, and deeply proud of his children, always offering guidance with patience and understanding. He welcomed his children-in-law as his own, valuing each relationship and the family they built together. His connection with his grandchildren was especially meaningful, as he took the time to know each one individually—celebrating their personalities, encouraging their passions, and imparting the values that created his own life of love. He relished in the relationships he shared with his nieces and nephews and always kept them close. Family was the center of his world, and his legacy lives on through the bonds he nurtured and the love he so freely gave.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

A memorial mass, officiated by Father Thomas Serafin, will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Noon in the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church, 105 Summer Road, Three Bridges, NJ. Burial will be private in Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Hunterdon Hospice: https://www.hunterdonhealth.org/services/hunterdon-hospice

Elixer Fund: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/elixir-fund or mail checks directly to PO Box 326, Princeton Junction, NJ 08550. Checks can be mailed to: Elixir Fund, PO Box 326, Princeton Junction, NJ 08550.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.