Richard "Dick" Hitchings, 76, of Rome, passed away on Wednesday September 23 2026 at Bethany Gardens. He was born on June 11 1950, son of the late Edward and Mary (Bohachick) Hitchings. Dick was educated in the Rome schools and graduated from Rome Free Academy.

Dick worked for the Rome City School District in building maintenance and could always be heard laughing through the halls of Strough. When he wasn't working, you could find him behind the grill, blasting Van Halen or driving his beloved Camaro.

Surviving are his wife, Shari, daughters, Shannon, Chelsea and her husband Tom Arcuri. Grandchildren Eloise and Emerson and good friend and music star, Eddie Arcuri.

He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Mary Hitchings, brother, Edward, and sister and brother in law, Linda and Chris Brooks.

In keeping with Richard's wishes, there are no calling hours or services.

Arrangements are by the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home, Inc., 7751 Merrick Rd. Rome, N.Y. 13440.

To offer online condolences, please visit www.njbushfuneralhome.com.