Richard Dennis Wayne Sr., 85, of Hyde Park, New York, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026 just one week after his beloved wife Mary Ellen.

Born on July 10, 1941, in Poughkeepsie, New York, he was the son of the late Murray Wayne and Sarafina "Sarah" Crocco Wayne.

Richard was employed as a photographer with his father, at Wayne Studio. He also worked at Western Printing for many years, later working for IBM in Fishkill.

On July 2, 1966, at St. Peter's Church in Poughkeepsie, he married the former Mary Ellen Gaffney. Together, they shared 60 years of marriage before Mary Ellen passed away on October 23, 2026.

A true New York sports fan, Richard faithfully followed his beloved New York Yankees, Giants, Knicks, and Rangers. His passion for sports extended far beyond watching games, as he dedicated more than 20 years to coaching Hyde Park Little League. During those years, he had the special opportunity to coach all his children, creating memories that would last a lifetime. He also coached in the St. Peter's CYO program and proudly managed his Little League team to the District 17 Championship in 1991.

Richard took tremendous pride in his home, particularly his yard, which he maintained with great care and attention to detail. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, watching the birds, especially the red cardinals, and taking walks at the Vanderbilt grounds with his beloved dog, Sarge daily.

He and his beloved wife, Mary Ellen, shared many wonderful memories throughout their 60 years of marriage, including cherished vacations to Aruba, trips to Saratoga, and memorable travels with their longtime friends, Bruno and Marie Imperati.

Richard and Mary Ellen were active parishioners of St. Peter's Church, where their faith and friendships remained an important part of their lives.

Above all else, Richard was a devoted family man. Nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his children and grandchildren. He made it a priority to attend every game, recital, and special event he possibly could. At the end of a busy day, Richard could often be found relaxing in his favorite recliner.

Richard is survived by his four sons, Thomas Wayne and his wife, Hayley, Stephen Wayne and his wife, Matilde, Matthew Wayne and his wife, Melissa, and Richard "Richie" Wayne Jr. and his wife, Maria; eight cherished grandchildren, Sarah, Sophia, Olivia, Mary, Ava, Giulia, Gabriella, and Giovanni. His sister, Doreen Wallace and her husband, Mike, his brother-in-law, Llmar; and many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents and wife Richard was predeceased by his sister, Sandra Vana.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 4pm to 7pm at Sweet's Funeral Home, 4365 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, New York.

A Funeral Service will take place on Friday November 6th at 10am at the Funeral Home.

Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peters Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Hyde Park.

To send an online condolence or for directions, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.