Dr. Richard Dick F. Morley

Richard was born on January 31, 1943, in Holyoke, Massachusetts. His father, James Joseph Morley, immigrated to the United States from Ireland in 1926. His mother, Ora Leclerc Morley, was born in Aldenville, Massachusetts. Richard, along with his brothers Lawrence, James, and Edward, were raised with a strong sense of their Irish heritage and as members of the Roman Catholic Church.

Shortly after graduating high school, Richard joined the United States Navy. In 1963, he began serving his four-year tour of active duty on the USS Josephus Daniels before being honorably discharged to return to college. Richard received his Bachelor of Science in Education from Salem State, his Master of Arts from Eastern Kentucky University, and his Doctor in Public Administration from Nova University.

Richard spent most of his career as the Principal Planner for Palm Beach County’s Planning, Zoning and Building Department. During this time, he was instrumental in the development of Palm Beach County and keeping it green through its many parks, bike paths, and recreational areas. He retired on his birthday, January 31, 2001, after 27 years.

Richard was an avid boater, fisherman, and sports enthusiast. He was active in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, Gator Snow Ski Club, and the Moose Lodge. He was also an active member of Saint Ignatius Church in Palm Beach Gardens for over 20 years.

For those that knew Richard, he was a great father and friend. He loved to talk about his family and friends, his days in the Navy, and his Irish roots. His positive attitude and sense of humor will be missed.

Richard is survived by his son, Michael Morley; son, Richard Hobson (wife Lindsey); daughter, Tiffany Milidantri (husband Tom); brother, Lawrence (wife Beverly); brother, Edward; grandson, Joseph Milidantri; granddaughter, Alexandria Milidantri; several nieces and nephews, and ex-wife, Margie Morley (husband Wes Annas). His parents, James and Ora, and his brother, James, predeceased him.

A Mass at Saint Ignatius will be held in Richard’s honor on February 21, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. Howard Price Funeral Home will hold a memorial gathering that same day from 6-8:00 p.m. Richard will receive a full military burial at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth on February 23, 2012 at 11:00 a.m.