Richard J. Phillips

Richard J. (Dick) Phillips, 85, a life long Norwich resident and past City of Norwich Fire Chief, passed away unexpectedly at his home early Monday morning, April 20, 2015.

Dick was born on January 18, 1930 in Norwich the son of Chester and Margaret (Lorimer) Phillips. He attended the Norwich schools and was a 1946 graduate of the Norwich High School. Deciding to further his education he attended Morrisville College from which he graduated in 1948. On Sept. 9, 1949, in Norwich, he married Margaret (Peg) Ross who survives.

Dick first was employed by Bennett-Ireland and later gained employment with the Norwich Pharmacal Co. where he worked for over 40 years. During his time with the company he worked as a chemical operator and maintainence coordinator and was a member of the company's 1st response team.

Dick was a very dedicated and community minded individual. He had been a very active member of the Norwich Fire Dept. having served as 1st and 2nd Lieutenant as well as Chief for 5 years. In 1966 he joined the George Rider Hook and Ladder Co. where he remained active throughout the years. Dick was also a longtime member of the Norwich Emergency Squad and had served as Lieutenant and Captain. The Norwich Lions Club of Norwich was also very near and dear to his heart. He had been a member for 30 years and held many of the club's offices including President. Dick was also very active throughout New York State with Lions having served as Zone and Region Chairman for District 20-Y1 as well as various other offices within the state. He was also a member of the Broad St. United Methodist Church of Norwich and B.P.O.E. Lodge #1222

In his free time Dick enjoyed his hunting, fishing, mowing lawns and cutting wood and taking drives throughout the countryside with the love of his life, Peg.

Dick is survived by his wife Margaret (Peg) of Norwich, his children David Phillips and wife Dale of Port Charlotte, FL, Susan LaTart and husband David of Rochester, his grandchildren Kiel Phillips, Steven LaTart and Janine Jalal as well as 4 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dick was predeceased by his granddaughter Stephanie Phillips and brother Charles Albert Phillips

A funeral service for Dick will be held on Saturday, April 25, at 11 am from the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the North Norwich Cemetery.

Friends may call at the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home on Friday from 5-7-pm.