Richard J. Lawlor Jr., age 77, passed away on Monday March 2, 2020 at the Penn Inpatient Hospice at Rittenhouse located in Center City Philadelphia, after valiantly battling COPD for many years. He is the beloved husband of 57 years to the late Carol (nee Jackson). Devoted father of Darlene "Suggie" Petroski (Michael), Richard III, John, and the late Carol DiCesare (Kevin). Loving Pop of Ashley, Kevin Jr., Kelsey, Jenna, Madison, Julia, Michael, Krysten, Richard IV, Jared, Victoria, Alannah, John Jr., Kyla, Hannah, and the late Matthew. Sadly missed by many great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Dear brother of Edward "Fast Eddie" Lawlor (Patricia), Catherine "Kitty" Molan (Bob), the late Frank Lawlor (Zennie), and brother in law of Mary Lou McCandless. Survived by his many nieces and nephews.
Rich was born to Richard J. Sr. and Catherine (nee Cooper) Lawlor and raised in the Fishtown section of Philadelphia. He entered the work force at a very early age and was a proud Sheet Metal Worker with Local Union #19 until his retirement. Subsequently, he was honored for over 50 years of continuous and dedicated service. In his spare time he was an avid golfer and loved having a good time with his friends on the weekends. He was the most stubborn man on the planet and definitely marched to the beat of his own drum. He had no filter, was brutally honest, and always said what was on his mind. He took life by the horns and made every minute count. He absolutely loved his sports teams, the Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles. However, he was not a fan of the Sixers and everyone knew it. Most importantly, he loved his family with his entire being. He always spoke so highly of his wife, the one and only true love of his life, his soul mate. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great great grandfather. His daughter Suggie described him as her rock, her hero, her everything.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing and funeral Friday March 6, 2020 beginning at 10am in the McElvarr Funeral Home 1415-17 E. Susquehanna Ave. Philadelphia PA 19125 (Fishtown) Funeral service 11:30am.
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