Obituary: Richard P. Halloran, 86

May 8, 1938 – July 11, 2024

Richard P. Halloran, 86, a lifelong resident of Reading, passed away peacefully at the Soldiers’ Home in Chelsea on Thursday, July 11. He was proceeded in death by his loving wife of over 50 years, the late Darrell A. (Smith) Halloran.

Born May 8, 1938 in Reading, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Nicholas and Helen Halloran. Richard (known by his family and friends as “Chief”) served in the U.S. Navy. Upon discharge from the Navy he became a barber, and in 1972 started his own business “Chief’s Barber Shop” which he owned and operated for more than 40 years. Chief’s Barber Shop is a staple in downtown Reading; a place where generations of locals have come to talk sports, gossip, and discuss current affairs. Richard enjoyed watching horse racing, golfing, and was an avid fan of all Boston sports teams.

Richard is survived by his three children, Nancy S. Orsula of Reading, Richard P. Halloran Jr. of Reading, and Robert G. Halloran and his wife Michelle (Lloyd) of Stoneham. He will also be dearly missed by his four grandchildren, Eric and Alex Orsula of Tewksbury, and Derek and Emma Halloran of Stoneham. Richard is also survived by one sister, Patricia Kelleher of Reading.

Funeral services will be private with no visiting hours. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to consider playing a scratch ticket or betting on the horses in honor of Chief.