Richard M. “Ricky” Bernier

BIDDEFORD – Richard M. “Ricky” Bernier, 67, of Biddeford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, at Southridge Rehab and Living Center in Biddeford.

Born in Sanford on Aug. 2, 1957, Ricky was the cherished son of Roland and Betty (Tuttle) Bernier. Though he faced the challenges of a lifelong disability, Ricky’s spirit was unstoppable. With his infectious smile and joyful presence, he lived fully and inspired those around him. For over a decade, Ricky was a dedicated employee at Lavalley Lumber in Sanford, and he also worked at Shaw’s Supermarket and in the restaurant industry in Biddeford.

Ricky had a deep love for nature and an extraordinary passion for birdwatching. He could identify countless bird species and was an active member of several bird-watching clubs. He enjoyed going bowling and had a deep love of music, especially The Beatles.

Family gatherings held a special place in his heart, and he always brought warmth and laughter to these occasions. Ricky adored spending time with his family, and his great-nieces Betty and Violet brought him immense joy.

One of Ricky’s favorite traditions was his weekly coffee outings to Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, where he savored his coffee and shared moments with friends. Ricky’s zest for life, kind-hearted nature, and boundless joy in simple pleasures will forever be remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ricky leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a remarkable example of living life with grace and gratitude. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and community.

Ricky was predeceased by his father; and many aunts, uncles; and cousins.

Surviving are his mother, Betty Bernier of Sanford; his sister, Linda Houle and her husband Michael of Sanford; his niece, Mandy Edmonds and her husband Chris of Sanford, his nephew, Brock Houle and his wife Angela of Florida; his great-nieces, Betty and Violet; five aunts, Sr. Maria Goretti (Jeannette Bernier) of Lewiston, Helena Campbell of Wells, Pearl Tuttle of Florida, Marie Tuttle of Sanford and Cecile Tuttle of Sanford; and many cousins.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at the Carll-Heald and Black Funeral Home located at 580 Main St. in Springvale. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31 at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church located on North Avenue in Sanford. Interment will be on the family plot at Limington Village Cemetery in Limington.

Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit http://www.blackfuneralhomes.com.