Richard E. Latham

1927 - 2021

Groton - Richard E. Latham, 93, of Noank, beloved husband of the late Joan B. Latham, passed away Sunday, May 2, 2021, at his home. He was born in New London July 9, 1927, the son of the late Everett and Meta Latham.

After graduation from Fitch High School in 1945, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in occupied Korea. After his honorable discharge, Richard became a member of the Noank Fire Department for 63 years, serving as Fire Chief for 30 of those years. He served as a past President of the New London County Fire Chief's Association and also on the Dow Chemical Fire Brigade. As an active member of the Noank Baptist Church for many years, he served as a trustee, church treasurer and usher. He worked at Dow Chemical in Gales Ferry, retiring after 40 years.

Richard and his wife enjoyed traveling, especially taking their children and grandchildren on numerous trips and cruises, especially to their favorite place, Disney World.

He is survived by his son, Mark and spouse, Jackie; daughter, Johanna Paradis and spouse, John; eight grandchildren, Jennifer, Shawn, Sarah, Ben, Zachary, Aubrey, North and Tyler; seven great-grandchildren, Warren, Sky, Parker, Kyree, Arthur, Zoe and Colin. He was predeceased by a sister, Eleanor Johnson.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10 a.m. June 5, at the Noank Baptist Church, 18 Cathedral Heights, Noank. Following the service, family and friends are invited to share memories of Dick in the church gardens. Burial will be private at the Noank Valley Cemetery. There are no calling hours.

The family would like to thank the members of the Noank Fire Department for all the help over the years and the wonderful care from Hospice of Southeastern, CT.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Noank Baptist Church.