Richard Heller, devoted veterinarian, philanthropist, civic volunteer and family man, died on Tuesday, Sept. 9 after a short illness. He was 82.

Richard was born on Oct. 2, 1942. He graduated with degrees from Michigan State University, Auburn University and Texas A&M University. At Auburn he was the editor of Auburn Veterinary Magazine.

After graduating with his D.V.M. from Auburn, he became an instructor at Texas A&M University where he also achieved his masters in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery. Before college, Richard was very active in the scouting program in Milford and achieved the honor of Eagle Scout.

He and his wife moved to Martha’s Vineyard in 1973 where he became the veterinarian for the MSPCA, which had the only veterinary practice on the Island. After practicing on the Vineyard for four years, he established his own practice in his hometown of Milford, founding Milford Animal Hospital.

Richard was an indefatigable doer. Over 45 years in Milford, he served as a town meeting member, was on the town meeting study committee, was appointed to two police chief selection committees, served as an elected library trustee, was a member of the arts commission, and was president of the Milford Symphony Orchestra.

He was devoted to his faith and his childhood synagogue. He served as president of Temple Beth Shalom for many years and remained a member of the board of directors.

Richard was very active in veterinary organizations. He served as president of the MVMA, and he received their distinguished service award in 1993.

He was passionate about education and led fundraising efforts at Touchstone Community School, the Central MA Branch of the IWFS (where he also served as president, as well as wine and food chair), and the Veterinary Scholarship Trust of New England.

Richard was the son of Dr. Sidney and Seena Heller and is survived by his wife of 52 years, Lynda; his daughter Adin; his brother Warren (Debbie) and sister Linda Heard; uncle Jon Heller; aunt Joanne Heller; nieces Amy Shea, Julie Campisi, and Carol Matscheck; cousins Fred and Beth Heller; and cats Noilly and Kina.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2025 at Temple Beth Shalom, 55 W Pine Street, Milford, MA with burial following at Beit Olam cemetery.

Donations in his memory may be made to Temple Beth Shalom Book of Remembrance, P.O. Box 30, Milford, MA 01757 or VSTONE Fund (mention that donation is in memory of Dr. Heller).