Dr. Richard Dale Carr, (1943 - 2023) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure.
He is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

80 years old
Born on January 15, 1943 in Enid, Oklahoma, United States
Passed away on December 11, 2023 in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

Please join the family in honoring Dr. Richard Dale Carr on his birthday - January 15 - by sharing your thoughts, reflections and memories on this site.

This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Dr. Richard Dale Carr, 80, of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts and Raleigh, North Carolina (formerly of Wellesley, MA and South Beach Miami) , who passed away on December 11, 2023. A loving husband, dad, grandfather, and uncle as well as dentist, business owner, director and longtime community leader in Boston Massachusetts. Richard will be missed dearly by family and friends.

Richard was born to Marion Carr and Alice (Cole) Carr in Enid, Oklahoma on January 15, 1943. He had five siblings, and moved to Kansas City, Missouri as a child. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1961 where he was in the National Honor Society, a member of the Marching Band, Science and Math Clubs and manager of the basketball team. He was also a 4-year football letterman where he made All City first teams.

Richard was recruited to Lincoln University – a Historically Black College & University (HBCU) in Jefferson City, Missouri to play for the Blue Tigers football program. At Lincoln, he was a two-time All-MWAA lineman and four-year starter at right tackle from 1961-64. He was also an excellent student, earning multiple academic awards and a membership to LU's Scientific Society. He became a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Inc Alpha Psi Chapter. In 2017, Richard returned to Lincoln University where he was inducted into the LU Athletic Hall of Fame.

Although he received an invitation to try out for the Denver Broncos, Richard decided to continue his education, earning a master’s degree in biology from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and Doctor of Dental Science (DDS) from Meharry Medical College of Dentistry in 1968. Richard went on to achieve a graduate degree as a specialist in Pediatric Dentistry from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. After completing his residency at BU, he made Boston his home for over 50 years.

At the young age of 34, Richard opened his dental office on New Edgerly Road in Boston, Massachusetts in 1977. With an SBA loan and an entrepreneurial spirit, in 1984, he expanded Carr & Associates in Back Bay to over 10 dentists and a 5,000 square ft. office serving children and adults and offering the dental specialties of orthodontics and periodontics. He continued to practice, while also successfully managing the dental business for over 40 years. In 2014, he retired and sold his dental practice. Based on the foundation he created, Carr & Associates continues to thrive and serve the Boston community today.

Richard was a Clinical Professor in the department of Pediatric Dentistry at Boston University School of Dental Medicine, a member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society and served on the Executive committee of the Massachusetts Academy of Pediatric Dentists and the Council of Dental Care of the Massachusetts Dental Society. He has been honored with the Yankee Dental Congress award and an award for outstanding service from the Roxbury Comprehensive Community Health Center. He did extensive patient education outreach to day care centers and programs for mentally ill and disabled children.

In addition to his professional life, Richard was a family man. He was a devoted husband to Dr. Michele Gibbons-Carr for over 40 years. They supported many family members who lived with them in their Wellesley, MA home from time to time. Richard also brought Kansas City’s great food and his community spirit to Boston. Richard and Michele often hosted friends and colleagues in their home where Richard served his famous barbeque with delicious sides prepared by Michele, or her mom, Mrs. Gibbons. Richard was also a devoted father and grandfather. He especially cherished the time he was able to spend with his daughter, Ayanna Carr-Brown, son-in-law Mark Brown and grandchildren Nyla and Jaden in Raleigh, NC.

Richard continued his lifelong interest and activity in sports. He was a four-time golf club champion at Leo J. Martin Golf Course in Wellesley, an avid squash player, lap swimmer, runner and enjoyed working out and lifting weights at the Solomon Fitness Center. He was a sports enthusiast, following his favorite teams and players and always expressing his analysis of how they’re doing.

Richard served on several Boards including the Urban League, HeadStart and the Committee of 1000 supporting the Boys and Girls Club. For over 30 years, Richard was a member of The Bachmar Club of Boston, a Black men’s social club founded in 1922.

Since 1995, Richard also served on the Board of Directors of OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank in the country. He introduced the new owners, Kevin Cohee and Teri Williams, to the predecessor bank, the Boston Bank of Commerce. This introduction and his steady guidance on the Board for over 30 years until his passing were essential and instrumental to the Bank’s success.

Richard is survived by his wife, Michele, his daughter, Ayanna Carr Brown, and her husband Mark Brown and his two grandchildren Nyla and Jaden Carr Brown of Raleigh, NC, his brother-in-law Dr. Gary Gibbons, his sisters-in-law, Lillian and Lucinda Carr and Sharon and Ahtoi Gibbons, nieces: Helen Cain, Mary Alice Thomas, Kimmie Jackson, Alyson Pugh, Reverend, Dr. Marian Carr, Alena Carr, and Angela Carr; and nephews: Kevin Cohee, Sr., (Teri), Derrick Jackson, and David Carr, Jr. as well as many great nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife and mother of his daughter, Clintonia Henderson Carr; his sisters, Minerva Brooks, Marian Starr and Maudiene Jackson and his brothers, David, Sr and James Carr.

Upon Richard’s request, a private family service will be held. The Carr family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this time.

Tributes

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May 1

Richard D. Carr
Richard and I met and became friends in the early seventies, and we were good friends the most of 50 years. Richard was a highly respected professional, a professional that many of us entrusted our children to in his dental practice. And while you could see a little of Richard's oversized, engaging, personality emerge through his professional posture, he really became alive in his social interactions.

Richard was fun to be with. He was smart, informed, engaging, trustworthy, witty, and just plain funny. He was loving and engaging. He could take a joke and was well- equipped with a personality that enabled him to throw it back your way.

Family meant a great deal to Richard. You had a sense that Richard and Michele were made for each other. They worked well together, they respected each other, they had fun together, and they enjoyed being together. Richard and Michele loved their daughter Ayanna, their son-in-law, Mark, their grandchildren, and their extended family.

I remember going on a trip to Atlanta in the early seventies and meeting one of Richard's old college friends. When he learned that I was from Boston, he called Richard by an old college nickname. Within a few days of my return to Boston, I ran into Richard and called him by his old college nickname. He was shocked and stunned to say the least, but he never told me how he acquired this nickname.

Lastly, I am delighted that I was able to spend some quality time in North Carolina with Richard and Michele. We enjoyed each other's company on the Outer banks and in Raleigh. I'm sure that Michele will never forget the trip the three of us took to Portsmouth, VA to a Boule Summer Outing a few years ago. Richard was front and center, and without knowing it, he displayed his old football skills as a blocker from his old college years. We laughed all the way back to the Outer Banks that evening. Indeed, I look forward to continuing to share time with Michele.

It is my thinking that Richard lived a good, productive, and loving life -- enriching the lives of others. And with that, may you rest in peace My Friend.

James E. Cofield, Jr.

February 19

He was a staple in the community of Boston. He is greatly missed, and his work continues even in his absence.

January 30

Remembering Richard fondly especially golfing and enjoying the sport. Condolences to the family.
Rudy and Linda Cabral

January 19

Juarez and I are honored to pay tribute to our longtime friend Rich Carr, and to extend condolences to our forever friend Michele Carr.

I will always remember Rich as the golfer that I could never beat but enjoyed playing with and learning the game, as a good poker player that I could sometime beat, and the barbeque enthusiast who prepared great food for all to enjoy. Most of all, Juarez and I cherish the friendship and wonderful times that we spent with Rich and Michele, especially the New Year's party at their Wellesley home and the Bachmar parties. These times will forever be remembered and part of our lives.
We will miss Rich here on earth but know that he is playing golf and enjoying good health in his heavenly home.

Blessings,
Tom and Juarez Farrington

January 17

Dear Michelle and Family,

We are saddened to hear of the loss of Richard. As newcomers to the Boston area, you and Richard graciously welcomed us into your home and circle of friends. We will alway cherish our time with Richard and your family. Please accept our deepest sympathy and know that we will keep you and the entire family in prayer.

Respectfully,

Ronald and Linda Watters

January 17

It's such an honor and a privilege to call Uncle Richard family. We love getting to know Uncle Richard and all that he has accomplished, and all of the lives he has touched through these beautiful tributes, stories, and photos. Our love for Uncle Richard is everlasting, and he lives on through our memories and celebration of his life.

January 17

Dear Michele and Family:
Thank you for sharing Richard with us these many years. A leader who was a wise, gentle, soul - and so committed to family and community. May all the cherished memories uniquely Richard continue to lift you forever.
Warmest,
Carol and Bernie Fulp

January 17

Sorry for the lateness of this note.

Richard and I spent a lot of time together at Meharry.
One of the best times was going to Belle Meade Cafeteria on Thursdays for all the chicken you can eat for 83 cents.

I will always remember the great times with a great person.

Thom Uelk

January 16

Michele introduced Larry and me to Richard years ago. Our literary club enjoyed many fond memories in their home and other family members have become our dear friends. Richard had a warmth and stellar spirit that made your time with them special. They were a loving couple and will be missed as such for many years to come. Michele, we hold you and the entire family close and pray that the light of Richard's warmth will continue to strengthen and console you. Love, Carolyne & Larry Jordan

January 16

We remember Richard as a devoted parent, husband, good neighbor, and sports enthusiast. Our friendship blossomed through the bond our daughters formed when we moved to Wellesley. We’ll forever cherish the laughter shared at his Wellesley barbecues, the memories made on the golf course and other social events. Your presence will be deeply missed. Rest in peace.
Clemmie and James Cash

January 16

Richard was a friend and our son's orthodontist. On our first visit I asked him if he thought Alan needed braces. He smiled, looked at Alan, looked at me and said, "Anne you KNOW he needs braces."
We both laughed. Alan now has a beautiful smile. I remember Richard's warm humor and his love for Michelle and his family. I will miss him.
Anne Ashmore-Hudson

January 15

You will be missed beyond words and always remembered in my heart.
Ahrin

January 15

Dearest Michele and Family,

Saddened to know of your beloved husband, father, grandfather's passing this past December. How beautiful to hold this tribute on the day of his birth. I only met Richard a few times when Michele held our literary group meetings at their home in Wellesley, but his warmth and kindness shone through as he welcomed us into their home. Sweet to read others' warm reflections on his full and productive life here!

In hopes this past two years in Raleigh with Ayana, Mark and his beloved grandchildren close by will leave all with cherished memories that will warm your hearts in time. Heartfelt sympathies.

January 15

It was a great privilege to be part of Richard and Michele's circle of friends. I first learned of Rich's skill at handball from George Thomas, a friend who played regularly with Rich.

The New Years Day party was full of surprises. After a long and lively conversation with a new acquaintance, my next new acquaintance
asked if I knew who I had just talked to. "Well, sure," I said. "that's a man who is a great fan of basketball here in Boston." "Well, yes," my new contact said; "He's also the coach of the Boston Celtics."

Once I moved out of the Boston area, I became a welcome overnight guest to make the work Michele and I were doing together easier. Regardless of his physical condition, Rich was always warm, welcoming and cheerful. I suspect that Rich had a stronger influence on the birth and growth of the BU School of Dental Medicine than is otherwise documented here.

Hopefully the day will come when I can meet the grandchildren.

January 15

Rich was a generous soul who gave so much to everyone he encountered while on his journey here. His transition means his journey continues on and his presence will be felt by all of us in our memories. Thank you for being part of our life.
My condolences to you Michelle and your Family

January 15

Richard was one of my favorite people. I loved his quiet, gentle and generous spirit.
When my now grown daughter had her braces from Dr Carr I would from time to time be so busy that I’d forget swing by his office to get replacement bands. On more than one occasion my door bell would ring and Richard would deliver her bands on his way home. This is only one example of his thoughtfulness and generosity.
Happy Heavenly Birthday dear Richard.
We will never forget you. Lynette Glover Griffin

January 15

Dearest Richard,
Happy Birthday!

As we observe this holiday, it is very fitting that we honor you. You were always willing to share your wisdom and experiences, offering sage advice on life in general.

Michele and Richard, your home was always the hub where family and close friends gathered and we were blessed to be welcomed often. You were the perfect union, ever smiling and laughing at jokes, enjoying football or cards with the guys, and sharing a delicious meal!

We often discuss how inclusive you were while hosting those great cookouts. Your demeanor was always the same…a friendly, loving, caring soul that we will always hold dear in our hearts.

We will truly miss our brother, “Rich”.

Lovingly,
Sylvia & M.L. Carr

January 15

Condolences to Michelle and all the family. My family knew Richard early in his pediatric dentistry practice. He was a master at making young children comfortable, and we were in need of that sensitivity with our youngest child. We will always appreciate his care and attention. A loss to all of us in the Boston area, he will be missed. May memories of his life bring comfort to the family.
Betty& Irving Allen

January 15

I , too, share in the loss of Rich. As we lovingly called him. Henry and I shared so many special moments with him and Michele. From their New Year’s Day open house, to being their guests at his BachMar Christmas party, to all the times their were guests at our dinner table. But one moment stands out in particular. It was years ago, and Rich was in the intensive care unit. When Henry and I went to visit him, we were told only family members were allowed to see him. Henry's response? I am his brother. So we got to visit Rich. A fond memory is when Rich and Michele called Henry to say goodbye when Henry was being transferred to hospice. We shared happy and sad times. I will always cherish our conversations which were open, honest, and interesting. He was truly a special person, one of a kind, and I will miss him. Much ❤️ Claudette

January 15

Happy Birthday, Richard,
You were indeed a gentle giant. Your spirit and wisdom will forever live on in all of us. As you continue on your journey, you will not be forgotten.
With love,
Dani Monroe

January 14

I was so sad to learn of Richard's passing. The Carr's were neighbors of my parents Lester and Betsy in Wellesley, and they became good friends with our whole family. It was great for my parents having such wonderful people as Richard and Michelle down the street as they truly loved spending time with them and getting to know them. We would often visit with them when I was home with my parents. I remember Richard as just incredibly kind, fun to be around, and generous.

January 14

Michelle and family, I’m so sorry for your loss.
Richard was a special friend, more like a loving brother these past twenty plus years. We had the special ability to share our pain and success, and all types of challenges that life threw at us. He tried to teach me how to play golf, unsuccessfully and I returned the favor on the poker table. I will miss you my brother.

Carole Sims

January 14

Cash Money, I will miss driving in your Benz and listening to Brothers Johnson and the like. Miss you lots xxx

Carole Sims

January 12

My late husband Lester Grinspoon and I had the greatest affection and respect for our friend and neighbor Richard Carr. We considered him a "mensch" in every sense of the word. We loved his and Michelle's parties and other invitations, and in addition we learned so much from Richard in so many areas, including dance lessons before our sons' weddings!

January 12

We will remember Rich for his warmth, his dry wit, his steady strength and confidence. He shared an appreciation and wisdom for the things in life which many of us might have overlooked. Please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of this dear man.
Warmly,
Sharon and John Burr

January 11

A rare partnership based on honest communication, mutual support, wit, laughter graced your lives. Such a pleasure for us to have witnessed your kove.
Such a pleasure to have shared a 45+ year friendship with a man of remarkable integrity, family values, achievement, wit and just plain fun. With time we pray that the memories of the special times will supplant the grief we share with you. We love you both.

January 10

I was Michele's maid of honor for her wedding to Richard and maintained a close relationship with them both. Through the years, we visited each other with my trips to Wellesley and theirs to Philadelphia. To me, Richard was one-of- a- kind. I appreciated his dry sense of humor, matter-of-fact attitude about life's vicissitudes and unexpected mixology skills. Among the many memories I have of Richard are his recipes for two drinks I'll now make in his honor: margaritas and Jamaican Rum Punch.

January 10

In our grief over Rich’s passing, I found some bit of comfort and peace in these thoughts to share among those whose fond memories of Rich continue to endure:

“What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”. (Helen Keller) .

“Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.” (Emily Dickinson)

Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2   He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3   he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
  for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk
  through the darkest valley,[a]
I will fear no evil,
  for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
  they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
  in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
  my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
  all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
  forever.

January 9

We will miss you… your love for Michele and family and friends was unconditional

January 9

Richard was so smart and loved people. I will miss his smile!

January 9

Dear Michelle and family
I am deeply sorry for your loss He was an incredible men.
I hope you and your family find comfort in good memories during this difficult time.
With love,Marcia Pereira

January 8

Claudette and are so saddened by the news of Rich's passing. Rich and Michele were always such good friends in the many years that we lived in the Boston area. Since we retired to Santa Fe, NM we had sadly lost touch. Our heart felt best wishes go out to Michele, and all of Rich's family.
With love, Lynn & Claudette Feuling

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Recent Tributes

May 1

February 19

He was a staple in the community of Boston. He is greatly missed, and his work continues even in his absence.

January 30

Remembering Richard fondly especially golfing and enjoying the sport. Condolences to the family.
Rudy and Linda Cabral

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Gallery

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His Life

Dad and Abuelito (Granddad)

January 12

Richard was a great dad and grandfather (or Abuelito as his grandkids called him). He adored and welcomed his daughter, Ayanna Carr, in 1974, his son-in-law when she married Mark Brown in 2005 and his two grandkids Nyla (2005) and Jaden (2008). He especially loved spending his last days with them in Raleigh, NC. He will be missed, but his legacy lives on with his children and grandchildren.

Director, OneUnited Bank

January 10

Richard served on the Board of OneUnited Bank for almost 30 years (1995-2023), providing steady guidance that supported the Bank's success.Through Richard Carr's relationships, Kevin Cohee and Teri Williams bought their first bank, Boston Bank of Commerce (BBOC) in 1995, that led to OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank in America. Richard introduced Kevin and Teri to the previous CEO, Ron Homer, who was seeking capital for the bank. Their investment launched BBOC on a path that included acquiring and combining 3 additional Black owned bank - Peoples National Bank in Miami, and Founder National Bank and Family Savings Bank in Los Angeles. Without the introduction as well as the approval of the Board of Directors, who knew Richard well, their investment may not have happened.

His Family, His Heart, His Home

January 8

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What mattered most to him

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Celebration of Life

June 30

On June 23, 2024, we had a wonderful celebration of life for Dr. Richard Carr (aka Unc). Thanks to his wife, Michele Gibbons Carr, we celebrated in Chestnut Hill, MA with over 100 people! Kimmie Jackson, niece, shared how Unc didn’t want a funeral, so having a celebration months later with family members and close friends felt like the right thing to do. And it was!❤️

Kevin Cohee, nephew, shared many stories about the amazing impact Richard had on our lives including that the expansion of OneUnited Bank, the nation's largest Black owned bank, was Richard’s idea! Erin Cohee shared how she and Unc were so happy playing in the yard when the Cohee family was house hunting 30 years ago that they get full credit for choosing the Cohee family home in Chestnut Hill! Kevin Cohee Jr. shared how Unc went to every one of his games his entire life and instilled in him the importance of excellence.

Dr. Gary Gibbons, brother-in-law and cardiologist advisor, shared how Richard helped him and his wife Sharon, as a young couple, obtain their first home. Ahmara, niece, shared how happy she was that he approved of her future husband, Elvin Ross and Elvin shared how they bonded over the importance of treating everyone with respect in his legal practice and Richard’s dental office.

Marian Carr, neice, shared stories about how her dad, Richard’s older brother David, contributed to his life including his great KC BBQ skills. Aunt Lillian Carr, David’s wife who met Richard when he was in college, shared the family’s commitment to education and excellence.

Ayanna Carr Brown shared how much her dad loved his grandchildren Nyla and Jaden! ❤️❤️

In addition to family, many friends and colleagues shared stories including Kevin Bowman, a fellow Bachmar, who shared how he and Rich bonded over poker and grilling and specifically barrel charcoal grills shipped from Texas. Many staff and dentists shared stories about working for Dr. Carr and how he mentored them.

Although most stories were celebratory, an emotional moment came when Dr. Diba Dastjerdi shared how as a young woman working in his office, Dr. Carr helped her get her visa, then her green card, then go to dental school and eventually many years later buy his dental practice! Wow!!!

Bravo Dr. Carr/Unc!!! An amazing life, well lived! ❤️

Super Bowl!!! Go Chiefs!

February 11

2024 is the first time we’re watching the Super Bowl without our football guru. Unc! No better person to watch sports with. He even has his own chair in our home. Missing him dearly. #GoChiefs The Cohees

Everything About You

February 11

by on behalf of Gary Gibbons

on behalf of Gary Gibbons

"Everything about you, your smiling face
I know you want us all to be strong
Really gonna miss you
I know you're gone to that magic place
Singing you a brand new song" - Smokey Robinson

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