Richard L. “Dick” Dias, 84, of Assonet passed away on Tuesday May 8, 2012 at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River. He was the husband of sixty-one years to Lois (Coyne) Dias.
Richard was born in New Bedford the son of the late Lionel and Irene (Vincent) Dias. He graduated from New Bedford High School class of 1948. He was a standout athlete and was inducted into the Greater New Bedford Gridiron Hall of Fame. Mr. Dias served his country during WWII with the United States Navy. Richard attended Arnold College in Connecticut. He majored in physical education and starred in football, playing alongside three NFL greats including Hall of Famer Andy Robestelli. He was also well known locally for his football prowess at the semi-pro level, playing for the Murphy Club, and the Fairhaven Varsity Club. He later went on to serve as the head coach of the Fairhaven Varsity Club.
Mr. Dias began his teaching career at Dighton High School and then at Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School. He coached football, basketball, baseball and track. While teaching Richard earned his Master’s Degree in Education from Bridgewater State College and eventually became a vice principal. Richard then became the Principal at both the Seekonk Jr. and Senior High Schools. He was loved by his many student athletes.
Dick spent several summers as the co-director of Camp Little Bay in Fairhaven. He also served on the Freetown Lakeville Regional School Committee for twenty-five years and also was the chairman for several years during his tenure. In, 2010, he was recognized by Stanford University for his achievement as a mentor, with an annual scholarship now given in his name. Mr. Dias enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends especially his grandchildren. He also was an avid New England Sports fan.
Survivors are a daughter: Nancy L. Campbell and her husband Scott of East Freetown, MA; two sons: Richard W. Dias and his wife Geralyn of Marion, MA; David L. Dias and his wife Cheryl of Troy, IL; ten grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a sister in law: Joyce Dias of Padanarum, MA: along with several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Robert Dias.
His funeral will begin on Saturday at 9:45am from the Hathaway Home for Funerals, 1813 Robeson Street, Fall River, with a service at 11:00am in the United Church of Assonet, 9 North Main Street, Assonet. relatives and friends are invited to attend. Burial will be private at the request of the family.
To light a memorial candle, sign guest book, facility or church directions go to www.hathawayfunerals.com or call 508 673-0781. memorial donations in his memory can be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital attn: Tribute Program, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148. Calling hours for Mr.Dias will be held on Friday from 4-8pm.