Richard S Ford

Richard S. Ford, age 92, passed away on September 17, 2018, after a long and well-lived life. Private services followed by burial in Cornwall with Military Honor Guard were held Sept. 20. Richard was the son of the late Chester Ford and Hazel Sheldon Ford of Waterbury. He loved God, country, family, his iPad and the neighbor's dog Lucky , "best dog I never owned", who visited "the ranch" every day.. A World War II Army veteran, Richard fought in the Battle of The Bulge and other European theatre conflicts when he was only a teenager and retained a great respect for all veterans. When he returned home he began a career in retail, eventually becoming manager of the First National Store (now Stop and Shop) in Litchfield where he gave many local youth their first job; teaching them responsibility, accountability, respect for yourself and others, and often, how to tie a tie. He later owned the Marleigh Gift Shop in Litchfield and worked at Read's Department Store in Southbury. He was a member of the Litchfield Lions Club for over 50 years, St Michael's Episcopal Church in Litchfield, The Milton Public Hall Association, a past member of the Cornwall Historical Society, and was a frequent volunteer wherever needed. He had a dry New England humor, a youthful attitude, a constant twinkle in his eye, a terrific laugh and a perpetual curiosity about all things. Richard was empathetic and inclusive - an advocate for every underdog. He had no patience for egos, attitudes ,slipshod work.or "old people thinking". He loved spending time with children and teens and was always on top of the latest in technology. (especially Skyping the great- grands). He loved fast cars, ( being the Social Ambassador for his son's pit crew at Lime Rock, ) good chocolate, every aspect of Nature, his flower gardens, American history and anything remotely mechanical. His story telling was magical, his love immeasurable, his patience profound. He lived by the simple premise of "be honest, do some good." He leaves three children, Richard ("R.J.") , Eileen and Margaret along with 9 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, many of whom came here from around the country for an August reunion. He also leaves a sister Maureen, and several nieces and nephews..He was predeceased by his wife of nearly 60 years, Kathleen, with whom he shared many adventures, his sister Nancy and his brother Chester. His family requests that those who want to celebrate the joy he found in every day and wish to "do good" donate in his memory to a place he held dear - The Milton Public Hall Association, ( which is also "young at heart, but old in parts." ) c/o Janet Magnifico, Treasurer, P.O. Box 302 Litchfield Ct. 06759. www.phalenfuneral.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard S Ford, please visit our floral store.