Richard Havens

Richard Havens, born July 17, 1937, age 83, passed away on Friday, February 26, 2021. Richard born in Chicago, IL, joined the Navy at age 17. While serving his country in the U.S. Navy and traveling the world, he met his wife and lifelong love, Carmela, of 54 years while stationed in Naples, Italy. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother and Grandpa/Papa.

His career started in the Navy serving on various Naval vessels around the world as well as serving during the Vietnam War. He took great pride in his time serving his country and loved to share stories with family and friends of his many adventures in the Navy. While his time in service, he was recognized multiple times for his dedication of service going above and beyond the call of duty. He continued this dedication even after retirement as a Food Service Manager working at Hurlburt Field.

He loved spending hours cleaning and working on his cars, as well as being a “Jack of all trades”.

If anything needed fixing, he was the guy you would ask. He never turned anyone away, always ready and willing to help. He carried on his experience and love of cooking by sharing his favorite recipes and making many of them for his family.

He was preceded in passing by his sweetheart, Carmela Havens, his brother George Havens, and sisters Georgianne Walker and Cynthia Dunn.

He is survived by his four siblings, Lydia Holesapple, James Havens, John Havens, and Tinamarie Havens. His daughters Ann Leighty, Bel Air, MD, Maria McCleary, Fredericksburg, VA and his son Richard Havens and daughter-in-law Traci Havens, Palm Beach, FL.

8 Grandchildren – Nicole, Carmela, Aidan, Giuliana, Reilly, Daniella, Ariana, Rayna and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/GiftFunds/GiftFunds?px=6939176&pg=personal&fr_id=39300