Richard J. Willigan

Willigan, Richard J. LATHAM Richard J. Willigan, 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, with his loving family by his side. Richard was the son of the late Edward and Daisy Willigan. Richard was the devoted husband to Virginia F. Willigan. They were married 56 years. Richard was in the ROTC program at Siena College where he received his Bachelor of Science degree. He was an artillery officer in the U.S. Army. Once discharged, he began a long career that culminated as the director of E.D.P. at the New York State Department of Education. Richard was a proud member of Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Latham where he could usually be found standing in the back. He was also a long time member of the Latham Elks Club. Richard enjoyed many years with his entire family at the "camp" on Lake George. Family and friends knew the Willigan dock was the place to enjoy the weather - according to the Weather Channel. Once the snow started to fall, Richard and Virginia traveled south to their winter home in Lauderdale by the Sea to enjoy sun, sand and many friends. Richard could always be counted on to help his family and friends with any home improvement project. Richard was predeceased by his son Scott. He is survived by his loving wife Virginia; his children, Richard Willigan (Kerry), Colleen Willigan, and Matthew Willigan (Michelle); and his beloved grandchildren, Sarah Willigan, Sean and Kelly Dufort, Sophia, Jena and Charlotte Willigan. He was the loving brother of Edward Willigan (deceased) and Diane Oliver. He was a loving uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet on Monday, January 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 26, at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of the Assumption, 498 Watervliet Shaker Rd, Latham. Burial will immediately follow the service in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Gathering size within our chapels and at the church will be based on the most current N.Y.S. occupancy requirements. Masks are required and social distancing is to be observed inside and outside of our chapels. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Richard's memory to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org. To leave a special message of condolence for the family, please visit www.NewComerAlbany.com.