Richard E. Hart

Richard E. Hart went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. He now joins his wife Patricia in heaven, who passed away just over a year ago.  Richard was born April 24, 1938 in Colchester Vermont, a son of the late Elmer and Alice (Richards) Langdon.  He proudly served his country in the United States Navy on the USS Wren.

Richard earned a bachelor’s degree from Sacred Heart University.  For over thirty years he was an operational manager for Handy and Harmon before his retirement.  Richard was raised on a farm.  He loved animals, gardening and being outdoors.  As his daughters were growing up, he spoiled them with many animals over the years: a rabbit, a goat, a pony and dogs.  He was a loving, hands on father teaching the girls to ride a bike, swim and sharing his love of fresh air and taking hikes.  As a man of strong faith, he shared his love of God and church with his family.  They would attend church every Sunday.  Richard was a deacon and volunteer for many church roles.

After retirement, Richard had more time for some of his other interests: collecting arrow heads and coins.  He expanded his garden and added a koi pond.  His competitive nature had him perfecting his swing on the golf course and of course hiking, collecting and recently adopting a dog.  In his younger years, Richard was an avid tennis player and golfer, his athleticism and competitive nature made him a worthy opponent to even the best of players.

Richard was a family man, a loving father and wonderful grandfather.  His daughters were his pride and joy.  Becoming a grandfather to his favorite boys made his life complete.  Telling stories, watching them grow, sharing his love of the outdoors and family gatherings were the highlights of his later years.  Although Richard will be dearly missed, his legacy of faith and family devotion will live on in his family.

Richard leaves to cherish his love and memory, his loving daughters Joan Hart of Naugatuck, Janet Searles and her husband John of Prospect and his cherished grandsons John, Kyle and Jason Searles.  He also leaves is brothers Donald Hart and his wife Jean of Fairfield and Walter Hart and his wife Aggie of Trumbull as well as several nieces and nephews.  Richard is predeceased by his wife Patricia and his daughter Dianne Hart. 

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 7pm at Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd. Prospect. In appreciation of Richard’s service to our country, military honors will be accorded following services. Visitation will be held from 5pm until the time of the service at 7pm.  Interment will be private. Prospect Memorial is honored to be entrusted with Richard’s services and to care for his family throughout their time of grief. Your words of comfort can be shared on Richard’s tribute wall on this website.

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