07/22/2026
This is very sad news to the Towing Community. He will be greatly missed by many.
Richard “Dick” Stearns, 94, of Millbury, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on July 14, 2026.
Born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, and guided by a strong work ethic and deep sense of purpose, Dick lived a life defined by dedication to his family, his community, and his profession. Alongside his beloved wife of nearly 75 years, Mildred “Millie” Stearns, he built a successful business to which they devoted many years of hard work and pride.
A graduate of Worcester’s South High School, he carried his determination and discipline from the classroom into every chapter of his life.
He served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War and spent part of his service on Wake Island, an experience that further shaped his character and sense of duty.
Dick was a respected leader in the towing industry, known for his vision, professionalism, and commitment to his colleagues. He served as president of TT Publications, publisher of Tow Times magazine, after being selected by its shareholders, and during his tenure helped transform the publication from a struggling operation into a thriving, well‑regarded resource for towing professionals. He was also an active member of the Statewide Towing Association in Massachusetts, working to advance education, safety, and recognition of towing as a vital profession.
Beyond his business and association work, Dick was deeply involved in broader industry organizations, including Friends of Towing, the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum, the International Institute of Towing and Recovery (IITR), and the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA). Through these memberships and his participation in their programs, he and Millie were honored with induction into the Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame, reflecting their lasting impact on the profession.
Following early retirement, Dick and Millie spent years traveling the country while raising funds to support the creation and growth of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the birthplace of the towing industry in the United States. Their efforts helped establish and sustain a lasting tribute to the field they cared so deeply about, preserving its history and honoring the men and women who built it.
In later years, Dick found joy in the simple routines of daily life. He and Millie were regulars at local establishments in Millbury, where they formed meaningful connections with friends and neighbors. After undergoing triple bypass surgery, the couple made walking a daily habit, often spending time at the Millbury rail trail, the Auburn Mall, and later at Walmart in Northbridge. These walks became an important source of connection and community.
In his final months, Dick faced significant health challenges. Honoring his wishes, his son Steven arranged for him to return home under hospice care, where he spent his final days surrounded by the familiarity and comfort he cherished. He passed peacefully.
He is survived by his wife, Mildred “Millie” Stearns; his five sons, Paul, Wayne, Larry, Steven, and Russell; four daughters‑in‑law; two granddaughters; and four great‑granddaughters.
The family extends their sincere gratitude to the physicians, specialists, caregivers, and hospice team for their compassionate care and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, https://curealz.org/?campaign=666449. The family kindly asks that cards and other expressions of sympathy be omitted to minimize potential distress to his wife.
