Richard E. Farmer, PhD, 75, of Portsmouth, RI, formerly of Yarmouth, Maine, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2026, at Silver Creek Manor in Bristol, RI. He was the beloved husband of the late Bonnie Cashin Farmer. Born in Pawtucket, RI, on March 15, 1951, he was the son of the late Paul and Ruth (Poole) Farmer. 

Richard was a lifelong learner and educator. He earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from St. Anselm College in New Hampshire, a master's degree in criminal justice from the University of New Haven in Connecticut, and a doctorate in education in Humanistic Studies and Psychology from Boston University. 

Throughout his distinguished career in higher education, Richard served as a faculty member, dean, and president at numerous colleges and universities, including Maine College of Health Professions, Sanford-Brown College, Macintosh College, Gibbs College, Ohio Dominican University, St. Leo University, Providence College, Sacred Heart University, the University of New Haven, and Cape Cod Community College. His career was defined not only by his dedication to education and leadership, but also by his genuine commitment to helping others.

Richard was also a proud author, publishing nine books, numerous research articles, and professional presentations. His writing focused on topics close to his heart, including managing stress in the workplace and the cancer journey faced by so many people. Writing became an especially important part of his life during retirement and was a source of purpose, reflection, and fulfillment. 

Richard lived his life guided by the values that meant the most to him: love, caring for and helping others, honesty, accountability, faith in God and spirituality, kindness, forgiveness, politeness, putting others first, and doing good. He believed deeply in treating others with compassion and respect. He was a true inspiration to those who knew him and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. 

Knowing that Richard is now reunited with the love of his life, Bonnie, provides comfort and solace to his family. Richard and Bonnie met as students at St. Anselm College. They fell in love instantly and shared 51 years of marriage before Bonnie's passing in 2024. Their love, devotion, and dedication to one another were a true inspiration to everyone who knew them. Their relationship was a beautiful example of a lifelong partnership built on love, friendship, and unwavering commitment. 

Richard is survived by his daughter, Erin Dunlop (Craig) of Tiverton, RI; his son, Paul Farmer (Lindsay) of Sullivan, ME; his siblings, Terrance Farmer (the late Greg Leary), Kathleen Kimball (Kenneth Kimball), Miriam Byrne (the late James Byrne), and sister-in-law Karen Farmer; and his beloved grandchildren, Madelynne Dunlop, Elizabeth Dunlop, Colby Dunlop, Fiona Farmer, Sadie Farmer, and Clark Farmer. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Cashin Farmer; his brother, Neil Farmer; his sister, Dorothy Erwin (the late James Erwin); and his brother-in-law, Greg Leary. 

Richard's family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the entire staff at Silver Creek Manor for the loving care and compassion they provided to Richard. The family would also like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Newport Hospital, The Miriam Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, Maine Medical Center and the New England Cancer Center for the dedicated and compassionate care they provided. Their professionalism, kindness, and support will always mean so much to Richard's family. 

A celebration of Richard's life will be held on October 10, 2026 in Portland, Maine. His family will share more details when they become available. 

Online tributes may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhome.com.