Obituary: Richard L. Sheehan, 1949 - 2026

Richard L. Sheehan, 76, of Nantucket, passed away at home on June 13 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Worcester, MA on August 1, 1949, he was the son of Dr. John F. Sheehan and C. Patricia (Lawrence) Sheehan, both deceased, of Shrewsbury, MA. He attended St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury and Holy Cross College in Worcester.

Dick moved to Nantucket in 1974 and worked as a carpenter and contractor for 50 years. While working with Lindquist & Murphy Construction and Sandcastle Construction he not only honed his skills as a master craftsman but also forged lifelong bonds and cherished friendships.

Dick leaves his wife and partner of 46 years, Mimi Huber of Nantucket, his daughter Harmony Collins of Nantucket, his son and daughter-in-law Travers & Kelly Collins of Santa Rosa, CA, his daughter Molly Sheehan, of Belfast, ME and grandchildren Breyden & Sawyer Corby of Nantucket and Gracie & Colt Collins of Santa Rosa, CA. He is also survived by his sister Mary Sheehan of Shrewsbury, MA, as well as many nieces and nephews, in-laws, cousins and his beloved dogs Gracie, Bodhi, Ty & Augie. He was predeceased by his brother John F. Sheehan Jr. and sister Patricia Ganias.

If Dick wasn’t out walking his dogs in the moors or at the beach, he could be found in his favorite chair with a book. He also loved sports, vintage Westerns and World War II movies. An avid reader, Dick rarely met a book he didn’t love.

Dick’s passions included reading, spending time with his friends, family, and dogs and was a committed advocate for animal welfare. His love for all creatures can be summed up in a quote by Edward O. Wilson: “Humanity is exalted not because we are so far above living creatures but because knowing them well elevates the very concept of life.”

An unpretentious man, Dick will be remembered for his love of life, his incredible sense of humor, his keen intelligence, his kindness, compassion, and generosity.

A celebration of Dick’s life will be held at a later date this fall on Nantucket.

Donations in his memory can be made to Nantucket Island Safe Harbor for Animals.