Craig Barry Richardson, 86, of Eliot, ME passed away peacefully with family by his side, on October 18, 2023, after a long illness. Born in Dedham, MA to Wallace and Phyllis (Campbell) Richardson, he grew up in Needham, MA along with his sister Jacqueline. Craig attended Needham Public Schools before graduating from the UMass Stockbridge School. In the early part of his career, Craig owned and operated two beauty salons in the local area. He later joined the sales team at Fluid Power Products followed by Energy Machinery, where he worked until his retirement.

Craig was also a longtime member of the Army Reserves.

Upon graduating from college, Craig returned to his family home in Needham. It was there, in the neighborhood, that he met his future wife, Sandra Ardito. They married soon after and moved to Walpole, MA to raise their two sons, David and Todd. Craig was always engaged with the boys, whether coaching baseball, building all sorts of things in the cellar workshop or riding dirt bikes in the woods. The whole family had one and he loved riding. They also created many happy memories playing cards, cribbage and enjoying the boats at their Aunt Jackie and Uncle Bill's on Cape Cod and at Uncle Paul and Aunt Evelyn's home on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH.

Following the passing of his beloved wife Sandy, Craig was extremely fortunate to find love a second time, when he met Linnea. They soon married and enjoyed twenty nine years of marriage. They enjoyed many activities together including motorcycle riding, RVing, and spending winters at their Florida home for many years.

Craig "Barry" will be remembered as a devoted husband to both of his wives, as well as a cherished father to his children and a loving grandfather "Grampy" to his six grandchildren. He was also a beloved friend to so many people in his life.

A passionate gardener, Craig loved growing and tending to his variety of hosta plants and his expansive vegetable gardens. He would grow plants from seed and creatively design ways to protect the plants from pests as they grew. Craig also loved animals, whether it was his beloved cats Fella and Nikki, watching birds and feeding them from his many, many feeders or even helping raise an orphaned squirrel who was always a welcome guest in the back yard of his home.

Craig enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and loved to attend as many of their games and events that he could. His grandchildren really lit up his life and put a smile on his face.

Craig left a lasting impact on all he met. His caring disposition, gentle nature and love for family and friends shone through everyday. As friend and pastor Jeff Larsen said, "I'll remember him as a gentle giant - someone who was calm and positive, and always had your back when you needed it." Craig is dearly loved and will be missed.

Craig is survived by his wife, Linnea; his children, David and wife Kerry of Wrentham, MA, Todd and wife Sarah of Charlemont, MA, stepdaughter Denise Burbank and husband Chris of S. Berwick, ME; his grandchildren, McKenzie, Taylor, Kyle, Thomas, Michael and Alexander; his great-granddaughter, Gianna. As well as his brother-in-law Paul Ardito and his wife Evelyn and an extensive circle of family and friends across generations who loved him so much.

He is predeceased by his parents, his wife, Sandra, his sister, Jacqueline, his stepson, William and granddaughter, Kailey.

At Craig's request, services and burial will be private. If you wish to remember Craig, it is suggested to either plant a tree in his memory by visiting https://shop.alivingtribute.org/collections/a-living-tribute/products/tree-planting-with-commemorative-card , or make a donation to Safe Haven Humane Society https://www.safehavenhumanesociety.org/donate/