Richard Henry Bogar, a father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away in his home on June 25, 2024, in Irvington, New Jersey. He was 77 years old. 

Born on January 23, 1947, in Houston County, Alabama, Richard was the eighth of nine children born to Willie Charles (W.C.) Bogar and Minnie Lee Bogar (née Brunson). Growing up, Richard didn’t get into trouble, had lots of friends, and liked playing basketball and baseball. 

In 1964, Richard moved to Newark, New Jersey, following his older siblings who migrated north. He later found employment at Two Guys Retail store, where he met Brenda Taylor. They married, moved to the Vailsburg section of Newark, and had two children: Frederick and Jennifer. 

Richard, also known to his family as “Mun,” had a towering presence at 6'2", a distinguished appearance, and would say whatever came to his mind...which was always unintentionally humorous. 

He also held jobs with The Star-Ledger, McGraw Edison, and concluded his 20+ year career with New Jersey Transit as a Bus Operator, retiring in 2012. Beyond his professional life, Richard was a member of New Light Baptist Church of Newark. 

He loved gospel music and also made a mark with his deep, soulful voice as a baritone in the groups The Masonic Sons and later The Sons of Calvary, where he sang along with his brother Bobby. One of his favorite songs was “Silent Night” by the Temptations and he loved to recite the 23rd Psalm. 

Richard was also a Freemason under the King Williams Grand Lodge No. 5 where he rose to the ranks of Master of the Lodge and Grand Junior Warden. 

A passionate chess and card player, Richard enjoyed challenging his mind and engaging in friendly competition. He loved his Bogar family! You could always find him at his sister Ruby Nell’s house or in Bobby and Neamio’s backyard having several beers. He was considered a “numbers specialist” when playing the lottery, which he often won. Richard had a special fondness for Westerns and was often found watching classics like “Bonanza,” “The Rifleman,” and “Gunsmoke.” 

Richard is survived by his son Frederick Bogar, daughter Jennifer Bogar, and grandson Aaron James-Bogar. He also leaves behind siblings Robert Bogar of South Carolina, Annie Ruth Weatherington of Alabama, Ruby Nell Watson of New Jersey, Bobby Jean Bogar of New Jersey, and Edna Wesley of Alabama as well as cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by siblings Eddie James Bogar, Willie Charles Bogar, Neamio Bogar, and second ex-wife Joann Morton. 

Richard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The American Heart Association in Richard’s memory.