Richard Joseph Ghattas

Richard Joseph Ghattas transitioned peacefully on December 25, 2024, surrounded by family in Ft Washington, MD. 

Richard was born on February 11, 1935, in Haifa, Palestine to Joseph and Nahed Ghattas. He was the oldest of 9 children.

Richard attended Medical school at Cairo University. During his time in college, he was the captain of the soccer team. After Medical School he practiced medicine in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. He completed his fellowship at Georgetown University in Obstetrics and Gynecology. His fellowship was followed by 25 years as a Medical Officer at Georgetown University while teaching Howard and Georgetown University residents, all while maintaining a full time OB/GYN medical practice in the Southern Maryland area. He was the first OB/GYN to practice at Calvert Memorial Hospital.

He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Nahed, his daughter Debbie, and sister Camelia. He is survived by his wife Joyce, his son Joseph (Cathy), his daughters Kamelia and Regina (Richard), as well as 7 grandchildren Gabrielle, Troy, Nicholas, Anthony, Richard, Jacob and Alex, and siblings Salem, Margo, Pierre, Nawal, Paul, Janette, and Therese.

He enjoyed his work as a Physician as well as his family.  After practicing medicine for 52 years, delivering countless new lives into this world, he retired in 2013 to be able to spend more time with family especially his grandchildren's sporting events and school events. He was an avid Manchester United fan and loved listening to Arabic music with his family at home. 

He was a dedicated physician and an extremely loving husband, father and grandfather.  He had a huge heart and an extremely generous personality. 

His legacy and light will live on in the lives of all whom he touched. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.