Richard W. Melody

Richard W. Melody, 80, passed in peace at his home in Romney, WV, on February 20, 2016 surrounded by family. He was born November 3, 1935 in Danbury, CT to Dorothy and Arthur Melody. Mr. Melody proudly served his State and Country through the Junior State Guard, the U.S. Navy, and as an auxiliary Connecticut State Trooper.

He attended the University of Connecticut, where he met his wife, Lillian R. Melody. He enjoyed a 25 year career at Readers' Digest. Mr. Melody exemplified dedication to family, and taught the meaning of respect and courage by the way he lived his life. He faced life with grit and integrity.

Mr. Melody loved to hike, camp and do home repair projects for himself and others, and most importantly, spend time with family.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Lillian; his son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Elke Melody; and daughter and son-in-law, Keara and Curt Smith. He was very proud of and close to his grandchildren, Zachary William and Connor Ryan Smith.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 10:30am at St. Peter Church, Danbury, with the Rev. Gregg Mecca, Pastor, officiating.

Friends will be received on Saturday, March 12, 2016 from 9am-10am at the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Navy – Marine Corps Relief Society, Attn: Development, 875 N. Randolph St. Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Pt. Dr., Tampa, FL 33607.