Richard E. Stokes, Jr. August 10,1967 – March 14,2022 Richard Edward Stokes Jr. of Malden, formerly of Melrose passed away on March 14,2022 at the age of 54. Richie "Junior" was born in Melrose, MA. He was the youngest of 6 and was the only son. He was a 1985 graduate from the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High school in Wakefield where he learned the skill of carpentry. After high school Richie went on to work at Davidson Chevrolet in Malden where he worked as a mechanic for over 20 years. Richie had a love for hockey, he played goalie in a street hockey league at Hockey Town, Saugus. Richie was an avid Boston Bruins fan as well as a New England Patriots season ticket holder. Richie made friends wherever he went due to his great sense of humor. You would always know when he entered the room. He will forever be remembered for his outgoing personality and his saying "Ya Kid!" Richie is survived by his mother Joanne Stokes and late father Richard E. Stokes of Melrose, late sister Joanne Driver and husband Kenneth of Melrose, Dianne Brown and husband Alan of Melrose, Gail Novak and late husband John of Texas, Linda Perullo and husband Charles of Melrose, Colleen Ragusa and husband Corey of Lynnfield. Nieces and nephews Kenneth, Stephanie, Jon, Melchiore, Joshua, Jessica, Joseph, Michael, great nephew and niece Jacob and Ava. Longtime partner Kerry Taylor and her son Seth. Visitation hours will be held at Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster Street, Melrose on Wednesday March 30, 2022, from 4 – 6pm. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend.