Richard Wilcox Sackett, Sr.

Richard (Dick) Sackett was born in Rochester, New York in 1930 and grew up in Evanston, Illinois. He graduated with a degree in English literature from Harvard College and a master's degree in radio, film, and television from Northwestern University. He met Melodie Carroll while leading a songfest at church and they married in 1966. He was the loving, dedicated father of Richard W. Sackett, Jr. and his wife Belinda; Julianne DuBois and her husband Bill; Geoffrey Sackett and his wife Heather; dear brother of Virginia Stanislaw and the late Walter and David Sackett; and the grandfather of seven grandchildren: Emily, William, Lauren, Christian, Phoebe, Jonathan, and Margaret. Dick was fond of learning. When he wasn't practicing music, he was reading. What were some of his favorite subjects? The First World War (aroused by his father's service in France), stamp collecting (especially covers of the American Expeditionary Forces), and railroading. Each was a bridge to his past and a way to pass family heritage on to his children. Dick cherished music. He appreciated classical, but was especially fond of jazz and barbershop. In college he took up the banjo, and played in several traditional jazz bands in his adult years. His barbershop days began soon after college and continued with longstanding participation in the DC chapter of the Singing Capital Chorus. Dick enjoyed friends and family. He was always available - to help with school projects, console a friend, or greet newcomers at church. His humor touched people. His poems, limericks, and jokes made people feel good even as they made them laugh. Some found their way into published material. One of his favorite pastimes was reading stories, or telling his own, to his three children. He also enjoyed taking his kids on special excursions - day trips to places of historical interest or dinner out for a chance to catch up. He listened well and was full of wisdom. Dick loved his wife dearly. They were true companions. They especially loved to sing together, at church, nursing homes, and with friends in their home. They delighted in filling others with joy through song. Dick devotedly served his heavenly Father. It is with profound thanksgiving that we celebrate his life. Family will receive friends at the family-owned BEALL FUNERAL HOME, 6512 NW Crain Hwy. (Rte. 3 South), Bowie, MD on Friday, September 17, 2010 from 1:00pm until the Funeral Service, 2:00pm. Interment, Mt. Oak Methodist Church Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held at Fourth Presbyterian Church, 5500 River Rd., Bethesda, MD 20816 on Sunday, September 19, 2010 at 2:00pm. If desired, contributions may be made to Fourth Presbyterian Church for the Building Fund or Missions.