Richard Louis Fiorillo, Sr.

Richard Louis Fiorillo, Sr., known affectionately as Rich, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2024, in Spartanburg, SC. Born on November 6, 1946, in New Haven, CT, Rich's journey through life was marked by dedication, love, and a remarkable sense of humor that endeared him to all who knew him.

Rich served his country with honor in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1969, a period that helped shape the determination and resilience he carried throughout his life. After his service, he furthered his education by earning an Associate's Degree, which paved the way for a successful career as a Quality Engineer at BMW. Rich's commitment to excellence in his work was evident in the respect he earned from his colleagues and the lasting impact he made in the industry.

Beyond his professional life, Rich was a man of many passions. His love for music was profound; he played the guitar and keyboard, playing with a local band for a time, with a joy and skill that could light up any room. A true fan of the New York Giants, Rich never missed a game and his enthusiasm for football was contagious. His love for good food was well known, and he could often be found savoring new culinary experiences, a testament to his adventurous spirit and appreciation for life's many flavors.

Rich's greatest love, however, was for his family. He is survived by his adoring daughter, Alissa Pace and her husband, Ira; his sons, Thomas Fiorillo and his partner, Sadie Lowe, and Richard "Buddy" Fiorillo; and his cherished one and only grandson, Luca Pace. Rich's life was also blessed by the companionship of his former spouse, Laura Fiorillo. He was predeceased by his parents, Salvatore Fiorillo, Sr. and Virginia Guanieri, as well as his brothers, Thomas, Anthony, William, Joseph, James, John, Salvatore Fiorillo, Jr. and sister Mary Geraci. He was also survived by Michelle Davison, Noelle Broeren, and several nieces and nephews that were very dear to him. Each family member brought immense joy to his life, and he to theirs, creating countless memories that will be treasured forever.

Rich will be remembered as a loving father, a doting grandfather, and a loyal friend. His thoughtfulness was as consistent as his humor, always ready with a joke or a kind word to lift the spirits of those around him. His presence was a source of comfort and happiness, and the legacy of his love will continue to be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

As we bid farewell to Rich, we celebrate a life lived with unwavering love, infectious laughter, and a heart that was always open to giving. He was the embodiment of a life well-lived, and though we mourn his passing, we take solace in knowing that his spirit will live on through the stories we share and the memories we hold dear.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Please join us in honoring the memory of Richard Louis Fiorillo, Sr., a man who touched our lives in countless ways and whose memory will forever be etched in our hearts.