Richard H Corey

Richard Hawes Corey died peacefully in his home on February 13, 2025, with family and caregivers at his side. Richard was born January 30, 1938, in Damariscotta, Maine, the son of Philip Vernon Corey and Lillian Hawes Corey. He enjoyed his childhood in this idyllic town of mid-coast Maine, spending much time on the Damariscotta River. When he was a bit older, he was enrolled at the Winchester School, CT, Falmouth High School, ME and later at Fork Union Military Academy, VA, where he graduated in 1956.

Richard joined the U.S. Army in January 1957, serving three years’ time, including in Karlsruhe, Germany. After an honorable discharge, he returned to Maine in December 1959 to work at W.H. Hinman Construction and completed business and accounting classes at University of Portland (now USM).

In late spring 1960, Richard met Jean Plested of Southampton, England. They married in 1961, settling in Falmouth, Maine, and together they had three children. Richard, known as “Dick” throughout his youth and young adult life, progressed at W.H. Hinman (which was later renamed Blue Rock Industries), and eventually he took over the role of general superintendent. He had a good mind for construction work and oversaw projects such as the I-295 highway, Veterans Bridge in South Portland, Crescent Beach State Park, and many other notable projects throughout the state of Maine.

In 1977 Richard met Ottavia Sangillo (“Tavia”), his best friend and soulmate. They were married in 1978. He was welcomed into her large Italian American family with open arms. Richard and Tavia hosted many gatherings in their home, with an endless supply of food and laughter. Richard was most often seated at the table (otherwise known as “holding court”), and quick with his whit. Richard and Tavia spent 41 years together until her passing in 2019. In 2002, Richard adopted Tavia’s daughter Catherine, who lovingly cared for them in their later years.

Richard was a proud member of The Masonic Brotherhood, Deering Lodge. His 60 years of service will be recognized posthumously on March 15th, 2025.

Richard had a number of interests. One hobby in particular was participation in ham radio transmissions – where he was truly in his element. He also was an outstanding cook, an avid reader, and gardener. His backyard is a testament to his love of well-kept gardens and his bird feeders attract an abundance of types of birds.

Richard is predeceased by his parents (2001 and 2003), his sister Constance Corey (1979), his brother Philip Corey, Jr. (2002), and his wife Tavia Corey (2019). He is survived by his sister Resta Burnham of Indianapolis, IN, daughter Lauren Corey and her husband Brian Callahan, of Portland, ME, son Stephen Corey and his wife Ursula Corey of Gig Harbor, WA, son David Corey and his wife Jill Mullin of Philadelphia, PA, and daughter Catherine Corey and her wife Kristen Grant, of South Portland, ME. He is survived by stepsons Benjamin Welch and wife Cassie Welch of Cumberland, ME and Michael Welch and his husband Edward Maus of Wilton Manors, FL. He is also survived by grandchildren John Corey, Samuel Corey, Owen Callahan, Isaac Corey, Josephine Corey, Henry Corey, Hasia Welch and Isaac Welch. Lastly, Richard is survived by his loving cat Gracie, who helped him during his time of grieving the loss of Tavia.

A graveside service will be held in the spring, at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HART of Maine.

The family would like to thank the caregivers from Home Instead (KC, Deborah, Karen, Bernisse), for their outstanding care of Richard during his final years, and Kristen of Northern Lights Hospice for ensuring a smooth journey in his final days. Richard was fortunate to have such good care.