Having been in the seminary with Dick for two years, I felt I knew him very well. He had a very positive attitude toward life not to mention his infectious smile. We had on many occasions a lot of laughs. May God bless for his contributions to the Augustinians.
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Martin | Bayport, NY
After graduation and when Fr. Appicci returned to Villanova from Peru, my wife and I would meet once a year for dinner at a Philadelphia Italian restaurant and then attend a Villanova basketball game. Great priest, great friend. Think of him often, miss him.
Mr. R. Thomas Giudice | Malba, NY
As the first woman managing editor of the Bel Air Yearbook, dear Father Appicci congratulated me, and if my memory serves me correctly he said, “I was managing editor once!” He was a special man of God. I do know and remember that, thank you, Jesus! Fr. Appicci also blessed my husband, Bob when we were dating back when...
Faith Murray Class of ‘65 College of Nursing
When my grandmother, then in her 90s, asked at Easter dinner, “Father Richie, why doesn’t God listen to my prayer to die?” Father responded “Maria, you are not the boss. God is the Boss.” She quickly shook her head and clucked her tongue in disagreement.
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Berrena | State College, PA
Many Sundays after his return from Peru Fr. Appicci would come to our house and cook chicken for supper. He loved to cook. We all spent many happy hours in the kitchen. Our 16 year old grandson still remembers “Chicken Appicci” which we call it whenever I cook it and he is with us again.
The Ryan Family | Lansdowne, PA 19050
Father Appicci was a wonderful priest, and a great co-worker, and especially a friend. He is often in my thoughts when speaking of the office and always in my prayers.
Ms. Gloria A. Belmonte | Wayne, PA
A wonderful role model and friend throughout my four years at Villanova and thereafter.
Mr. Frank J. Gilbride, II | Greenwich, CT
Father Richard D. Appicci, O.S.A.
February 1, 2024 marks the seventeenth anniversary of the death of Father Richard D. Appicci, O.S.A.
"He was truly a 'Man for all Seasons and Ministries'. His long career as an Augustinian Friar recounts his showing the face of Jesus as a teacher, administrator, missionary, prison chaplain and, most importantly, as a friend."
—John E. Deegan, O.S.A.
Excerpt from the Homily at Father Appicci's Funeral Mass.
You are invited to make a gift to the Richard D. Appicci, O.S.A. Endowment for the Augustinian Missions in memory of Father Appicci. Let us continue to celebrate Father Appicci’s life and legacy by supporting what he loved doing best—helping others in need.