Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

Age 86, of Venetia, formerly of Pleasant Hills, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Son of the late Joseph James and Ann (Madak) Fitzharris of Whitehall.

Beloved husband of 64 years to Vera (Garritano) Fitzharris; loving father of Beth Ann Carroll, Richard James (Lisa Lynn), and Jeffrey Louis; Proud Pap of Samantha Lynn (Michael) Green, Victoria Elizabeth, Mary Hannah (Nader) Tannier, Sarah Grace (Eliot) McPherson, Abigail Marie, Rebecca Ann, and Emma Rose. He was also a cherished Pap Pap to Haven Ruth, Raya Reign, Camden Banks, and his late angel, Arya Joyce.

Brother of Joseph James (P.V.), William Douglas (Cindy), and the late Eugene Robert. Brother-in-law of Clara G. Paolicelli and the late Mary C. (Donald) Jones.

He will also be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Richard graduated from Baldwin High School in 1958, earning a scholarship to play football at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. His love for the South continued throughout his life, inspiring him to restore several Charlestonian antique homes on the peninsula.

His years at The Citadel fostered a deep love of history and a fascination with our country's past. He was shaped and mentored by many professors, particularly Lieutenant Cousins, who inspired the young men in his classes to strive to achieve all they could with the talents they had been given.

After his time at The Citadel, Richard returned home to Pittsburgh to marry his high school sweetheart, Vera. He began his business career at Gimbels Department Store, where he advanced through the ranks before moving to Kaufmann's Department Store. There, as Vice President of Home Furnishings, he enjoyed many years of professional success.

Richard's greatest joy was his family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A gifted writer, he lovingly penned books and articles to share with them, leaving behind a meaningful legacy of stories, knowledge, and family history.

He loved to read and share his understanding of our nation's rich history, exploring the foundational moments that shaped our country. His curiosity also led him to discover historic sites around the world.

Richard and Vera traveled throughout Europe to explore their family's origins and visited remarkable places across the globe, including Egypt, the Holy Land, and Rome, which held a special place in his heart as his favorite destination.

Richard will be remembered with deep love and affection by all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the generations of family he cherished, the knowledge he shared, and the many lives he touched.

Friends will be received at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227 on Sunday, November 8, 2025 from 3-8 p.m. Funeral prayer on Monday, November 9, 2026 at 8:45 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in St. John XXIII Parish, St. Benedict the Abbot Church at 10:00 a.m.