Richard Scaife

Richard Lee "Dick" Scaife, 86, of Vermilion Township, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2026, at MetroHealth Medical Center due to an accidental fall at his home.

He was born December 7, 1939, in Armstrong County, PA, and had been a Vermilion Township resident for over 60 years.

Dick dedicated more than 30 years to education, spending the majority of his teaching career inspiring seventh and eighth-grade students through his love of science. He also served as the Vermilion High School golf coach and the basketball and football coach for Vermilion Middle School, sharing his passion for the game with young athletes.

An avid golfer, Dick enjoyed playing in numerous golf leagues and treasured the opportunity to attend the Masters Golf Tournament in 2023. His curiosity and appreciation for the natural world extended far beyond the classroom. He loved spending time outdoors, whether tent camping, hunting, birdwatching, tending to his beehives, or exploring nature preserves. Dick also had a passion for travel and adventure. He enjoyed memorable experiences, including a cross-country camping trip, traveling abroad, and spending winters in Florida. He was a jack of all trades and a master of none; he was talented in carpentry, roofing, and working on vehicles. Whether on the golf course, exploring the outdoors, or discovering new places, Dick embraced the many experiences life had to offer.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joyce (nee Brown) Scaife; daughters, Leanne Scaife-Tank and Cheryl "Cheri" Scaife; granddaughter, Samantha (Tom) (nee Tank) Trease; great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Emerson "Emmy"; sister, Linda (Edward) Simmons; niece, and Jonelle (nee Simmons) Apple.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Mildred Scaife; and son-in-law, Mark Tank.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Lawn Haven Burial Estates in Worthington, Pennsylvania.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, 1375 East 9th Street, Suite 600, Cleveland, OH 44114.

The family would like to thank Vermilion Township Fire Department, the life-flight staff and the staff of MetroHealth ER for their compassionate care.

Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.