Richard Conway
Mystic — Richard “Dick” Alan Conway, 87, of Mystic, passed away peacefully Jan. 2, 2024, with family by his side. Prior to moving to Mystic, Dick was a resident of Waterford for over 50 years.
Born March 29, 1936, in Providence, R.I., to Col. Bernard and Doris (Albies) Conway, he graduated from Providence College and earned master’s degrees in education and earth science from Eastern Connecticut State College and Franklin & Marshall, respectively. He also completed many courses at various schools with his favorite being a geology class in Red Lodge, Mont. In 1960, Dick married Jean (Gavil) Conway which led to a rich life of love, laughter and travel.
In addition to Jean, survivors include their children: Mark, Patricia (Richard), Peter (Laura), and Timothy (Franca). He is also survived by his brother Barry Conway (Barbara); and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Joan Staton and Patricia Conway. Dick was also the proud grandfather of Kirsten and Scott May, Kevin, Riah and Sean Conway and Alexis Conway.
Dick began teaching science and mathematics at Clark Lane Junior High School in 1958, and moved on to teach earth science, oceanography and chemistry at Waterford High School in 1963. His professional resume also included candidacy for NASA Teacher in Space Program, president and founding member of Friends of Project Oceanology, National Science Foundation Scholarship recipient and founding member of the Thames Valley Rockhounds. He also volunteered at Conn College arboretum. After years of coaching track, he was very involved supporting the WHS athletic programs by collecting game tickets with his dear friends, Frank, Howie and Gerry, and working the game clocks at wrestling meets, soccer and basketball games. He retired in 1993, and will forever be known for his classroom puns, jokes and extra credit questions. His legacy will be known for being an unwavering advocate for each and every student with whom he interacted.
Although he loved his students, Project O and hobbies such as gardening, camping, making jam, word puzzles, stoking the woodstove and playing basketball, Dick was happiest when surrounded by his family. Be it gracing the dance floor with Jean, spending time with his children after hours at the beach, or attending his grandchildren’s arts performances and sporting events; Dick was filled with joy.
As a resident of Avalon Health Center for over two years, the family’s heartfelt gratitude goes to the staff who cared for Dick. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the WHS Scholarship Fund, Richard A. Conway Memorial Scholarship Fund, Waterford High School, 20 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford, CT 06385.
A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 15, at St. Patrick’s Church in Mystic. The service will also be livestreamed.