Richard Cookson

Richard "Cookie" Cookson, 86, of Tiverton, Rhode Island, formerly of Fall River, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Born on August 17, 1939, in Fall River, he was known for his warm and kind personality, coupled with a great sense of humor that endeared him to family and friends.

He was the husband of the late Elizabeth “Betty” (Auclair) Cookson with whom he shared 40 years of marriage and previously the husband of the late Elizabeth A. (Cooper) Cookson with whom he shared 27 years of marriage.

Richard was employed by Winde McCormick Laminates, Crest Tile Distributors, Auclair Funeral Home, and the Southcoast Hospitals Group. He served in the Army National Guard during the Berlin Crisis, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

In addition to his military service, Richard made significant contributions to his community as a Deacon at the First Congregational Church in Fall River for many years. He also held the role of past president of the Westport Music Boosters.

Richard had a passion for tennis in his earlier years, and he cherished moments spent playing cards with his friends and family. He loved being surrounded by loved ones, and his ability to bring joy and laughter will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

He was the father of Deborah Nickerson (husband Rudolf), Laurie Peckham (husband Shawn), and Richard Cookson Jr. (wife Suzanne); stepfather of Rachel E. Berube and Derrick A. Remy (fiancée Heather) and the late David Remy (wife Susan); grandfather of Amanda, Lindsey, Elizabeth, Stacie, Shawndra, Chris, Nickolas, Shayne, Rebecca, Andrew, Colby, Katelyn, Josh, Zachary and Nicole; brother of the late Donald Cookson (wife Betty), Kenneth Cookson (wife Maureen), Russell Cookson (wife Marylou) and Wayne Cookson (late wife Vivian), Ruth Rodrigues (late husband John Rodrigues) and Barbara Hardy (Charles).

Richard was the brother-in-law of Paulette Barselou (late husband Daniel), Atty. Robert A. Auclair (late wife Francine) and the late Charles Auclair.

Richard also left many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was the son of the late Sydney and Mabel (Lang) Cookson.

Friends and family are invited to the visitation at Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main Street, Fall River, MA, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by a funeral service at 10:45 AM in the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Bristol County Veterans Association, 755 Pine St. Fall River, MA 02720.