Rick Damon Vannah, 69, formerly of Gloucester and Essex MA, died Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Rick was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother and uncle. He touched the lives of many and will always be remembered for his love, warmth and dedication to his family. He was married to the love of his life and best friend, Brenda Vannah, for over 44 years.
Rick is survived by his wife Brenda, daughters; Chatsuda Kongaew, Chatdarw Morales and her husband Saul Morales, granddaughter Antonia Ford, granddaughter-in-law Celine Moodley and great grandson Leo Damon Chang. He was predeceased by his daughter Tammy Thomas and grandson Chiyeh Chang.
Rick was the eldest of five siblings, a role he embraced with lifelong pride. He was deeply religious; his Catholic faith played a central role in his entire life. His devotion to Catholicism shaped his beliefs and guided his daily actions. In his elementary school years, he served faithfully as an altar boy and performed with the CYO bagpipe band, a clear reflection of his deep commitment to faith and community. Rick was actively involved in local activities, demonstrating a strong sense of service and dedication. His passion for scouting and love of country guided him through every rank of the Boy Scouts, culminating in the distinguished honor of Eagle Scout, an achievement he held with great pride.
After graduating from Gloucester High School Class of 1974, where he participated in ROTC. Rick continued his education at the renowned military college, The Citadel in South Carolina where he graduated with a degree in civil engineering. And where he later met his wife while attending a homecoming football game.
Rick turned his engineering degree into a dream realized, owning and operating a successful concrete form company. Later, he worked as a civil engineer for another larger concrete company. He also became a restaurateur alongside his wife, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to their shared endeavors.
Rick enjoyed traveling. In his younger years, he set out on memorable journeys with his brother Mark. One of their most treasured experiences was an epic trip to Germany, a journey that became a cherished memory for both Rick and Mark throughout their lives.
Rick and his wife owned a vacation home in Thailand, which served as a favorite getaway for the couple. Rick delighted in vacationing there with Brenda, enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the country. Every time Rick visited Thailand, he was warmly welcomed by all his Thai relatives. They especially appreciated his infectious smile, which brought joy to everyone during his visits to Brenda’s homeland.
Rick enjoyed music and singing his favorite songs like “Celebration”, “Song Sung Blue” and “Money Talks”. Whenever his family hears any Neil Diamond tune, Rick is immediately brought to mind, especially the beloved Boston anthem “Sweet Caroline”. Which reminds us that Rick was a devoted Boston sports fan, passionately cheering for his hometown teams and sharing that enthusiasm with his family and friends.
Rick’s younger siblings and their families will deeply miss their beloved big brother and uncle, a man they respected and cherished; Mark D. Vannah and his wife Julie, Laura E.V. Mitchell and her husband Daniel, Everett L. Vannah, Lisa S. Tarsook and her husband Paul; Rick was the Godfather to his nephew, Nicholas J. Mitchell.
Nicholas is married to Dawn. Nephew; Alexander C.R. Tarsook and his wife Abby. Nieces; Auriel V. Mitchell, Jacqueline S. Mercier and her husband Luke. Great nephews; Jackson Mitchell, Reed Mitchell and Grayson Tarsook.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am on Friday, February 20 at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church 3305 Glen Carlyn Rd, Falls Church, VA. Interment will follow in the National Memorial Park Cemetery, King Davis Memorial Gardens, 7482 Lee Highway, Fall Church VA Family and friends are cordially welcomed. Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Everly-Wheatley Funeral Home and Crematory of Alexandria VA.