Obituary of Richard Tupper

Richard Tupper, 76, of Cortland, NY, passed away on April 12, 2026. Born on April 24, 1949, to the late Edwin and Betty Sheen Tupper, Richard was a lifelong resident of Cortland and a man deeply devoted to his family, his community, and his faith. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who cherished time with his family—especially his grandchildren—above all else. Richard attended St. Mary's Catholic School and graduated from Homer High School before earning Bachelor degrees in business and political science from St. John's University in Queens, NY. A true public servant, Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 101st Airborne Division. His commitment to service continued throughout his life, including leadership roles as President of the Rotary, the hospital board, the board of realtors, and the parish council at St. Mary's Church. He was also the owner of Tupper Real Estate. Richard dedicated decades to public service in Cortland County. He served 13 years in county government, including as Chairman of the Cortland County Legislature. During his tenure, he helped oversee major initiatives including the construction of a county jail and landfill, and he played a key role in a landmark Supreme Court case that successfully prevented low-level radioactive waste (LLRW) from being brought into Cortland County. He later served 20-years in the Town of Cortlandville, including 15-years as Town Supervisor and additional years overseeing the town budget. Under his leadership, the town experienced significant growth and development, including the renovation of Town Hall, expansion of parks and recreational facilities, development of athletic fields that drew regional and international tournaments, and the strengthening of critical infrastructure and services. He took great pride in maintaining fiscal responsibility, helping limit tax increases over decades while supporting meaningful growth. Richard often spoke of how much he loved working with the folks of Town Hall, and serving his community. He was proud of Cortlandville's strength, its people, and its future. Outside of his professional and civic life, Richard enjoyed golfing—often daily—at the Cortland Country Club and spending time with his Thursday night poker group. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 50-years, Barbara Tupper; his children, Matthew Tupper and Mary (Matthew) T. Eckdahl; his sisters, Sally (Greg) Young and Mary Johnson; and his cherished grandchildren, McKenna and Maxwell Eckdahl. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Michael Tupper. Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Wright-Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Ave., Cortland, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Church, 46 N. Main St., Cortland, NY. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary's Catholic School, 61 N Main St, Cortland, NY 13045. To offer online condolences please visit www.wright-beard.com.