"Sass" Richard J. Ferrara

Richard J. “Sass” Ferrara, 71, of Seabrook Beach, NH, sadly passed away this week after a valiant battle against cancer.

To many, Sass was the familiar face you looked forward seeing on the other side of the Andover 99 bar for decades. A comforting presence at lunch or after work who, after just one visit, you would consider a personal friend you couldn’t wait to see again.

To neighbors at Seabrook Beach, where he lived in the same house he spent summers as a child, Sass was a devoted and doting family man who enjoyed riding around in his Cadillac while running errands with his beloved wife, Linda.

To his family, Sass was a rock who embraced old-fashioned values and would grin ear-to-ear over a good cigar, smooth cognac and a home-cooked Italian meal. He was also a lifelong fisherman, embracing every opportunity to cast a line with his son, Nikko, and son-in-law, Michael—even if nothing was caught. (“That’s why they call it ‘fishing’ and not ‘catching’,” he would love to remind people.)

There isn’t a person alive whose life wasn’t better after meeting Sass. He was a warm-hearted friend who always made you smile, no matter how bad a day you were having. A kind soul who would always listen or help make a connection or offer a ride when needed. A good man who embraced his Lawrence, Italian roots and never let go of them.

Born in Lawrence to Mary Cammarata and Santo Ferrara, both deceased, Sass is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Linda (DiZazzo) Ferrara; daughter, Leeza Ferrara and her fiancé, Mike Baxter of Danvers, MA; cherished granddaughter, Ava Baxter of Danvers, MA; son, Nikko Ferrara and fiancé, Kristina Sperounes of Middleton, MA. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Sass wouldn’t want tears shed for him. He’d rather all have a toast or meal in his honor or all go fishing and cast a line in his memory.

Donations in Richard's memory made be made to StJude.org. www.stjude.org/donate

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visitation on Monday, July 25, 2022, from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM at Cataudella Funeral Home, 126 Peasant Valley Street, Methuen. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow in Elmwood Cemetery, Methuen.