Richard Barron Vannie

Thursday, December 31, 2020. Born in Hartford, CT, he was the son of the late Joseph F. Vannie

and Rita Barron. He was predeceased by his beloved first wife, Charlene Bernard and his brother, Peter.

Left to celebrate Richard’s life and to mourn his passing are his wife, Linda (Hannon) Agnew

and their combined family of five loving children and their spouses: Christine Vannie (William

Priest) of West Hartford, CT, Danielle Verdura (Javier) of Palos Verdes, CA, Claudine Elliot

(Stephen) of Cheshire, CT, Kelly Medvigy (Brian) of Catonsville, MD, and Corey Agnew (Jillian

Slater) of St. Augustine, FL. He is survived by nine cherished grandchildren: Gabrielle, Lucas, Rylan, Owen, Celeste, Grayson, Dax, Zoey and Quinn. Richard leaves his sister, Sister M. Arlene Vannie of the Sisters of Mercy, in Hartford, CT. He also leaves loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and long-time friends.

He attended schools in Hartford and graduated from the University of Rhode Island, College of

Business, were he later taught. As a United States Marine, he served his country proudly. His

business career began at the Aetna Casualty Company. He retired in 2002 as Senior Vice

President of AON Risk Services. While a member of the West Hartford Republican Town

Committee and later, its Chairman, Richard was an influence in CT politics. He served on the

Republican State Central Committee and later, as Executive Director of the CT Republican Party.

Governor M. Jodi Rell appointed him an honorary member of her Military Staff. While serving West Hartford as a Justice of the Peace, Richard had the honor of performing the marriages of three of his children. He also represented West Hartford as a Commissioner on The Metropolitan District (MDC). He was a close friend of Bill W. for 44 continuous years. To those who knew him, he was a kind and humble man with a quick wit who made everyone feel welcome. He was known as a source of strength and encouragement to many. Helping others gave him pleasure. His family will miss their “Papa” while they carry on the lessons he taught them. This summer, when the threat of Covid has passed, a celebration of Richard’s life will be held in West Hartford, CT followed by burial in Mount St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield, CT. Donations to the charity of the donor’s choice in Rich’s name would be an honor.