Richard Hart Fairfield

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard (Dick) Hart Fairfield, a beloved husband, father, and brother. Dick, born on November 7, 1932, in Youngstown, Ohio, left this world on January 8, 2024, surrounded by the warmth of his family.

His enduring legacy lives on through his family who were a source of immense pride and include his wife Donna of 35 years; his son Douglas Hart Fairfield and wife Nancy, and their two sons Patrick and Alexander; his son Richard Hart Fairfield, Jr. and his wife Amy; his stepdaughter Amy Morales and her husband Rick, and their son and daughter Ry and Marlo; and stepson David Tibbals and his wife Merrill, and their three sons William, Adam, and Elliot; and late sister, Nancy Shindler.

Dick grew up in the quaint suburb of Upper Darby, Philadelphia, PA, where he was embraced by the love of his parents, Vera M. Bailey and Doral Hart Fairfield. A graduate of Columbia University, Dick’s passion for chemistry led him to become a lifelong member of the American Chemical Society. His career unfolded at Ciba-Geigy, starting in Ardsley, NY, and later blossoming in Greensboro, NC, where he made his home for over four decades. Later in life, he enjoyed his time living in the communities of Ponte Vedra and Jacksonville, Florida.

In Greensboro, Dick’s giving spirit shone bright as he dedicated his time to the community. A proud member of Leadership Greensboro Seniors, he lent a helping hand to the Urban Ministry, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched. His faith found expression at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, where he actively participated in the Men's Group and Foyer Group, forging friendships that lasted a lifetime. At Holy Trinity, Dick’s compassion shined, as he actively served as an usher and volunteered with their Mobile Wheels.

Beyond his contributions to the community, Dick embraced life with passion and zest. He was an avid golfer, and he also reveled in the camaraderie of his weekly poker games, where laughter echoed as loudly as the shuffling cards. His unwavering loyalty to the Philadelphia Eagles and the Philadelphia Phillies attested to his deep-rooted connection to his hometown. He also immensely enjoyed his many summers vacationing in Maine with family and friends.

Dick Fairfield's love for life was infectious, mirrored in the sparkle of his eyes and the warmth of his smile. Family was his anchor, and he cherished every moment spent with those he held dear. Among the many skills he mastered, Richard was renowned for concocting the perfect dry-gin Martini, a skill he took great pleasure in, just as he savored every sip.

As we bid farewell to Richard Hart Fairfield, let us remember the twinkle in his eye, the laughter he shared, and the love he showered upon us all. May his spirit live on in the stories we tell and the memories we hold dear. In honoring his memory, let us celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, indomitable spirit, and impact on the lives of those around him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations may be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville; or Community Hospice of Northeast Florida. His funeral and memorial service is scheduled at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 4129 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, FL on Monday, January 29th at 1:00pm EST.