Richard "Tubby" Nejaimey

Richard J. Nejaimey, 87, popularly referred to as Tubby, by many dear friends and family, passed away  Sunday, January 30^th, 2022, after a brief illness, surrounded by his family. He joins in heaven his wife Judy Nejaimey and grandson Elias Tembenis. 

Richard was a lifelong Worcester resident. He was the son of Charles and Lena (Esper) Nejaimey, whom emigrated from Lebanon to Worcester, in the early 1900’s. Richard graduated from Worcester Boys Trade Vocational High School, where he studied carpentry. He furthered his education at Worcester Junior College. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country proudly during the Korean War Era. Upon his honorable discharge for service and return home, Richard began his career, at Perini Construction Co, where he helped build the Massachusetts Turnpike. Around 1959, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to form Nejaimey Construction Co. he built many homes, in Worcester and beyond, including the home he raised his family in, and continued to live in, until his passing. Later in life, he was also a successful, licensed, Public Insurance Adjuster, working on behalf of the insured, helping many with property losses they had incurred.  

Richard’s wife, of 43 years, Judith (Vasseur) Nejaimey predeceased him in 2005, along with his sister Katherine Clymer of Florida. He is survived by three daughters, Gina Tembenis and her husband Harry of Worcester, Jodi Sousa and her husband Francis of Auburn, Heather Nejaimey, and her fiancée Timothy Powers with whom he lived; four grandchildren, Devin, Jaimey, Averi and Deegan. A piece of his heart was shattered when his eldest grandson Elias Tembenis passed, in 2007. He also leaves behind his brother James Nejaimey, of South Yarmouth, along with nieces, cousins, and many dear friends.  

Richard’s family were founding members of Our Lady Perpetual Help Church, where Richard also served as a member of the Melkite Knights. He was a longtime, founding member of the former Syrian Lebanese American Club.  

Richard had a larger-than-life personality, who was loved by many. He loved to be in the company of friends and family, where food served as a centerpiece of enjoyment. He loved to cook, and had opened a beachfront stand at Hampton Beach, aptly named ‘Tubby’s’. He was the first person we knew to ever make sandwich wraps, which decades later became popularized. He enjoyed golfing, recording a hole in one at Holden Hills Country Club. He also had a love of theatre and performed in several plays, in his earlier years. Richard was considered a part of the fabric of the community of Worcester and was honored with a key to the City of Worcester for his dedication to his community, at this 85^th birthday celebration. 

Richard will be deeply missed by all who knew him, of which there were many. He was one of a kind, exacting a quick comedic wit, and a love of life. He did it his way. 

Friends and relatives are invited to a period of calling hour from 4 to 7 pm,  Wednesday, February 9^th  and again from 10 to 1045 am  Thursday, February 10th, in Our Lady of Perpetual help church,  256 Hamilton St. His funeral service will follow at 11:00 am in the church. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. Flowers may be sent of memorial remembrances made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help church, 256  Hamilton St or the St Jude Children’s research Hospital,  501 St Jude Way, Memphis Tenn. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to be handling arrangements.