Richard Raymond Hadley Jr.

Richard Raymond Hadley Jr passed away on August 12, at the age of 71. Born and raised in New London, CT, Richard was the son of Darletha Pitts Hadley of Waterford and the late Richard R. Hadley, Sr. Richard joined the Air Force shortly after graduating high school. He completed two tours overseas including multiple years serving in the Vietnam War. Richard concluded his military career after 22 years of service. Richard continued his commitment to protecting others as a police officer for several years before becoming a correctional officer for the state and retiring as a captain in 2003. Richard was an avid outdoorsman who could often be found enjoying one of his many hobbies including fishing, crabbing, clamming, and hunting. His hobby was complemented with his skill in the kitchen and behind the grill; a talent that his family and friends knew well. Richard will be forever remembered by his loving wife of 22 years, Susan Bynum Hadley, his mother Darletha, his children Casandra, Richie (Heather), Lauren, and Myles (Ariana), and his many siblings, Viola (Daniel Jenkins), Cynthia (Calvin Morris), Audrey (George Penn), Yvonne (Larry Boliver), Michael, Vernon (Linda), David, Billy, Elen (Steve Helme), Vanessa (Armando Hendrickson), and Maurice (Stephanie). He will also be forever remembered by his numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. Richard was pre-deceased by his father, sister Theresa Hadley-Hobbs, brother Dee, and son Anthony.

A Celebration of Richard’s life will include the following: Wake on Friday August 17th from 4:00pm - 7:00pm at Labenski Funeral Home 107 Boswell Ave in Norwich, service at 9:00am on Saturday August 18th at St Patrick’s Cathedral at 211 Broadway in Norwich, followed by interment at 11:00am with military honors in the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery Bow Lane Middletown.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation. PO Box 718 Old Mystic, Connecticut 06372. Please visit www.labenskifuneralhome.com to leave an online tribute or condolence.