Richard J. Grillon, 78

WASHINGTON, Mass. —  Richard J. Grillon, 78 of Washington, MA died on Thursday July 22, 2021 at his home.

He was born in Adams, MA on January 23, 1943, son of Joseph and Rose (Holvec) Grillon. He attended local schools and graduated from the former Adams High School. Richard received his undergraduate degree from American International College. After college he was a VISTA volunteer in Missouri and Brooklyn. He was a community organizer in Springfield, before moving back to Berkshire County and taking his first job as a case worker for the Commonwealth of Mass, his employer until retirement after 33 years of service.

Richard, known as Dick to his friends and family, was a long time resident of Washington MA.

He served the Town of Washington for many years as a selectman and was on many town boards and committees. He was a member of the Board of Directors for Head Start and the Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority. He was an advocate for the hill towns in his many roles.

His wife was Susan Dunning Grillon who died in 2006. They were married on October 5, 1984. Survivors include two daughters, Happi Grillon of Philadelphia, PA and Joy Onasch (Timothy) of Westford, MA and one son, Benjamin Dunning Grillon (Lina) of Pittsfield, MA. He also leaves two grandchildren, Chase and Lydia Onasch; and one brother Albert Grillon (Lee Flournoy) of Windsor, MA and nephews Glenn and Evan and niece Natalie Grillon.

He was a storyteller, a gardener and lover of his mountaintop home. He loved a bargain, especially if it was a used car. He was a champion of the underdog and a friend to many. He reveled in saying his granddaughter’s full name, Lydia Rose, because she was named after his beloved mother Rose. He had a special bond with his son Ben who lovingly made sure he always had enough wood in the house to keep the stove burning all winter. He will be missed.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A private burial for Richard J. Grillon will be held in the Washington Cemetery in Washington, MA and a Celebration of Life will occur at a later date. There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to Berkshire County Head Start in care of FLYNN & DAGNOLI-BENCIVENGA FUNERAL HOME, 5 Elm St. Pittsfield, MA 01201. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.