Richard Latino

Groton — Richard N. Latino, 77, of Groton entered eternal life March 18, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Nov. 6, 1946, in New London, the son of the late Nicholas and Jennie (Gunther) Latino.

He attended local schools in New London, graduating from New London High School in 1964. There he lettered in varsity football, basketball and baseball. In the early 1980s, Richard graduated with an Associate’s Degree in accounting from the former Mohegan Community College (now the Three Rivers Community College).

After graduating from high school in 1964, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, honorably discharged after four years of service.

While in Tucson, Ariz., he met the love of his life, his cohort in crime, best friend and soulmate, the former Teresa Lusk. They married Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 1970, in Tucson, Ariz. That was the start of their beautiful journey surrounded by family and best friends. Soon after he was discharged, they returned to his hometown of New London, where they started their family and their daughter Desarae was born.

Richard worked for and retired from the United Postal Service after 46 years of civil service. Baseball was the highlight of what he enjoyed. “Enjoyed” is an understatement, for he not only played Little League as a little boy, but no one could keep him off the field. Richard, or “Coach Bepa,” could be found at any baseball game around from Little League to New London Legion to Avery Point.

Richard is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 54 years strong, Teresa; his daughter Desarae (Louis Anthony Soldner); and his two grandchildren, Aiden Edward Latino and Marczyanna Lorine Latino, who were the light of his world. He is also survived by his two loving siblings whom he adored, Marion Leandri (Rudy Leandri) and John Latino (the late Janet “Netta” Latino), as well as V. Murphy; and the many nieces and nephews he always spoke of. To Richard family was and always will be number one.

His family will receive relatives and friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 24, at the Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Ave., New London. Interment with military honors will be private. Gone but not forgotten.