Richard Paul "Richie; Tiffani" Morrissey

Richard Paul "Richie" Morrissey, also known as Tiffani, of New Milford, Connecticut, passed away in the early morning hours of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, surrounded by loving family, at the age of 54. Born at 1:18 AM on June 12, 1971, in Danbury, Connecticut, Richie was his brothers' first best friend, the uncle who doted on every niece and nephew, and the heartbeat at the center of so many rooms-always in the mix, making sure no one felt alone.

Along the way, Richie embraced a name that fit: Tiffani. Choosing the name Tiffani became a turning point-freeing expression long restricted and ridiculed during formative years.

Many knew Richie first and later Tiffani; honoring both names tells the whole story of one life leaning toward authenticity and joy.

A relentless worker and learner, Richie entered the Job Corps (Springfield, MA), earned a GED, and became a licensed hair stylist, spending more than a decade behind the chair.

Making people feel seen and beautiful became both craft and calling. With a dream of opening an inclusive neighborhood salon, studies continued at Onondaga Community College (Syracuse, NY).

At 39, life changed with a stroke, intertwined with addictions fueled by stigma and shame from an often harsh and cold world.

Although confined to a wheelchair, with significant disabilities - along with a famously colorful vocabulary- the next chapter became a 15-year comeback story, rebuilding day by day, initially guided by the loving hand of Richie's mom, Thelma Ann Whelden (Ward), who taught him to face challenges with courage, humor, and an unstoppable determination.

After Mom passed in 2016-leaving what the family calls her most precious "inheritance" in Richie to the compassionate and loving care of Tracey Morrissey, a loving sister-in-law, best friend, and occasional sparring partner, to coordinate daily care and logistics.

Tracey led a dedicated team of professional providers, and she was supported by some incredibly kind friends. That circle of love widened even further when a ragtag, all-heart crew built a home- nail by nail, in between their own work shifts-so life could continue in comfort, safety, and dignity.

'80s freestyle on repeat (Stevie B; Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam), good food at full tables, legendary antics, big emotions, and loyalty that refused to let anyone stand alone, that's what family and friends will never forget.

Even in hard seasons, these qualities stayed the same-grit, quick wit, a warm welcome, and a gift for turning "nothing special" into the night everyone still talks about.

Celebration of life to be announced. For now, may our beloved Tiff rise and let the music play, as we picture that beautiful dance across the floor-taking peace in knowing you've reached God's kingdom and returned to Mom's loving embrace.