Preston Hartland Richards

Obituary for Preston H. Richards
September 18, 1965 – August 24, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt love that we announce the passing of Preston H. Richards, who departed this life surrounded by the love of his family.  Preston was born on September 18, 1965, in St. Andrew, Jamaica, to the late Alvin Richards and Joyce (Hartley) Richards. He was one of ten siblings and is lovingly remembered by his brothers Ian, Paul, Christopher, Steve, and Kevin, and his sisters Arlene, Denise, Angela and Dawn.  He was predeceased by his beloved brother Devon. A devoted husband, Preston was married to Emma for 35 wonderful years. Their love was a shining example of commitment and partnership, and they would have celebrated their anniversary on September 3, 2025.

Preston worked with strength and pride as a stevedore and Union Delegate at the Shipping Association, dedicating himself to the hard work of the docks and to standing up for the rights of his fellow workers.  He was a loving and supportive father to his children: Shadeen and her husband Romano Higgins, Chez Richards, and son O’Shane who is currently serving overseas in the U.S. Navy, and his significant other Beyanka, as well as his adopted sons Gregory and Daniel Morgan of Jamaica.  His heart overflowed with pride and joy for his grandchildren: Hailey, Rei’yah, Rilee, Arielle, Liam, and Emma-Abichez. He embraced his role as a grandfather with strength, warmth, and a constant smile, always quick with a song or a story.

Preston was known for his love of music, often singing and bringing joy to those around him. He enjoyed nothing more than time spent with family, sharing Jamaican food, and cheering on his favorite soccer teams, Brazil and Cameroon, with passion and energy.  A firm but loving father and grandfather, Preston’s strength was matched only by his compassion. He instilled in his family values of resilience, respect, and unity, always guiding them with a steady hand and a tender heart.

Services to celebrate Preston’s life will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, Shalom 7th – Day Adventist Church, 84 Crown St., Waterbury, CT 06704

Viewing: 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM    Funeral Service: 11:30 AM  Interment to follow at Grove Cemetery, 1 Cross St., Naugatuck

Though Preston is no longer with us in the flesh, his spirit, strength, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know him.  May he rest in eternal peace.

Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and to care for the Richards family throughout their grief journey.  By sharing your favorite memories, photos and words of comfort on Preston’s Tribute Wall at prospectmemorial.com, you will bring comfort to his grieving family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Preston Hartland Richards, please visit our floral store.