Richard Buckley
Groton — Richard Alfred “Dick” Buckley, 101, passed away peacefully June 17, 2023, at Solstice Senior Living, Groton. Dick, formerly of Norwich, was predeceased by his loving wife of 68 years, Frances Fazio Buckley. Richard was born in Norwich in April 19, 1922, son of William and Annie (Caulkins) Buckley.
He was educated in Norwich Public Schools and Norwich Free Academy, Class of 1942, where he was named Class Athlete. Dick was a World War II veteran serving in the U.S. Army flying in the Burma-India Theater. While there, he and fellow soldiers began a basketball league, building a makeshift basketball court. He was a founding coach of the Pioneer Baseball League in Norwich. He retired from Lehigh Oil Company where he worked most of his career.
Dick enjoyed the beach and his trips to Galilee, R.I., Beach Pond, and family vacations on Cape Cod. Upon retirement, he and Frances spent winters in St. Petersburg, Fla.
Dick will be remembered for his kindness and willingness to help others. He was a sports enthusiast, cheering for his Cardinals.
Dick was most proud of his family. He is survived by his four children: daughters, Nancy and Robert Parzych and Elizabeth and Bruce Avery, and sons, Richard and Evelyn Buckley and Thomas and Cynthia Buckley. He was “Poppa” to grandchildren Leigh Buckley (John) Altice, Todd (Vanessa) Avery, Mark (Anne) Parzych, and Sarah Buckley. His nine great-grandchildren brought him much joy! He will be missed by them all.
The family extends a loving thank you to Janet Richardson, who provided devoted caregiving to Dick with love, grace, and tenderness. Sincere appreciation and gratitude to Faron Boreham, executive director of Solstice Groton, the Hartford Healthcare Independence at Home Team, and Dr. Salman Zafar for their dedication, professionalism and compassion.
Dick is survived by his brother, Robert Buckley; sisters-in-law, Evelyn Buckley and Antoinette Demicco; and brother-in-law Rocco Fazio. He was predeceased by his brothers, William and Frederick Buckley; and sister Ruth Sanders. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.
The calling hour will be from 10 to 11 a.m. with the funeral service at 11 a.m. July 8, at the Woyasz Funeral Home, 141 Central Avenue, Norwich. Military honors will follow at Maplewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the “Richard and Frances Buckley Scholarship Fund,” N.F.A. Foundation, Norwich Free Academy, 305 Broadway, Norwich, CT. 06360.