AMHERST: Jack Richard Morrissey, age 81, passed away peacefully Tuesday November 21, 2017 in the loving care of his Service Net family in Amherst. Born in Holyoke to the late John and Louise (Rackliffe) Morrissey, he was predeceased by a brother and a special friend Hazel. Richard is survived by a brother Jim Morrissey and his wife Gwen of Granby; sisters Eleanor Wehrlen and Maureen Morrissey of Holyoke, and Debra Morrissey of South Hadley, many nieces and nephews, and his extended Service Net family. He was a 30-year resident of the Belchertown State School, where he worked in the School Dairy Farm. After leaving Belchertown, he became a resident of Northampton, working for Riverside Industries and doing custodial work in the Northampton area. He retired to Amherst in 2015. Rich was an avid fan of UConn women’s basketball and the Boston Red Sox. He would not miss a game all season, if not on T.V. he would listen on the radio. His love of the Sox started with Ted Williams, “the Big Guy in left field” and remained loyal, whether winning or losing. After a poor season, it was never the players’ fault but the managers. “Always next year!” The best day of the year for Richard was his birthday, especially at the Bluebonnet Diner, or surrounded by his friends at the special parties at his Amherst home. During the latter part of his life, there were many difficulties and relocation issues. At each party, with a smile, he would announce “I am taking it one day, see you next year!” A funeral Mass will be held Friday December 1, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament Church, 1945 Northampton St. Holyoke. A reception will follow to greet family and friends. There are no calling hours and burial is private. Richards family would like to thank the Service Net Staffs of both Amherst and Northampton for the special care and love you gave. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.