Richard Thomas Boles

OAKLAND – With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Richard Thomas Boles announces his passing to join his lovely wife, Carol Boles. Richard, at the age of 83, passed away peacefully at his home on Willey Point, alongside his devoted son, Elias J. Boles, just a few weeks before his 84th birthday.

In his final days, Richard was blessed with a memorable visit from his beloved daughter, Kimberly S. Devir, and her husband, Timothy, and their five children, Megan, Kaitlin, Connor, Lindsey, and John, whose presence brought him great joy and comfort.

Richard was born on July 13, 1942, to Elias John Boles and Blanche Elizabeth Boles, whom he loved dearly. He graduated from Waterville High School before earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Education at the University of Maine in Farmington. Dedicated to both learning and service, Richard began his career teaching at Lawrence High School. At the same time, he helped operate Boles Market on Kennedy Drive while pursuing his Master’s Degree in Education at the University of Maine in Orono. Throughout these busy years, he remained a devoted husband and an exceptional father to Elias and Kim, as well as the biggest fan of his grandchildren. He retired from the Clinton School System as a superintendent after 30-plus years in education.

Richard’s life was defined by hard work, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to family and friends. Yet beyond his professional accomplishments, it was his love for the water, the mountains, and the people closest to him that brought him the greatest happiness.

Some of Richard’s most cherished memories were made on the coast of Maine aboard the Nautilus, sailing out of Rockport with his wife, Carol, and their children. He especially treasured his annual week aboard the Timberwind, surrounded by lifelong friends Julie, Bill, Bear, Ruthie, Paula, Sonny, Pete, and Lois Cooper. Those friendships, built over decades, remained among the most meaningful relationships of his life.

Richard and Carol also shared a love of skiing, spending countless happy days on the slopes of Sugarloaf with family and friends. In later years, they enjoyed wintering in Gulfport, Fla., and creating treasured memories with their children and grandchildren at their home on Messalonskee Lake in Oakland.

Above all else, Richard’s greatest pride and joy were his five grandchildren. He was their most enthusiastic supporter, faithfully following their accomplishments on the field, in the classroom, and throughout life. Nothing brought him greater happiness than celebrating their successes and watching them grow into remarkable young adults. His love for them was boundless, and they remained the center of his world.

Richard is survived by his son, Elias J. Boles. his daughter, Kimberly Devir; and his five beloved grandchildren, Megan, Kaitlin, Connor, Lindsey, and John. He is also survived by his brother, James Elias Boles and his wife Lenore, his sister, Susan Boles and her husband Mark Ginocchio, his sister, Donna Gambino and her husband Joseph, his sister, Pamela Sturtevant and her husband Tom, and his sister, Mary-Anne Greffe,; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends from far and wide.

Richard leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, adventure, and love. He taught by example, demonstrating the value of hard work, lifelong learning, friendship, and family. Those fortunate enough to know him will remember his steady presence, his generous spirit, and the pride he took in the people he loved.

Upon joining the Town Shore community in Gulfport, Fla., he immediately became involved, serving on the board. He immersed himself in the community playing golf, bocce, shuffleboard, and bridge, and was instantly a Town Shore icon.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers who provided Richard with compassionate care, comfort, and dignity in his final days. Their kindness and support will never be forgotten. The family would also like to thank Maine General Homecare and Hospice. And most importantly, the family would like to express sincere gratitude for the care, compassion, and dedication from Dr. Julie Phelps. Her kindness, professionalism, and support meant a great deal to our family and brought comfort during this difficult time.

Though Richard’s passing leaves an immeasurable void, his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the family he cherished so deeply.

“A life well lived leaves a lasting wake in the hearts of those who loved him.”

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. July 24, at St. Joseph Maronite Church, 3 Appeleton Street, Waterville

In lieu of flowers,

donations may be

made to the:

Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care

361 Old Belgrade Road

Augusta, ME 04330