Richard L Newcomb

Our wonderful father, grandfather, and friend, Richard Lester Newcomb, went home to the Lord on May 28, 2021, after a short illness. Richard is survived by his four children: Maura McAnney (Jon), Erin Schmalzle (Marc), Tara Dubois (Tom), & Rich Newcomb (Marie Banks). Richard is also survived by his 11 grandchildren: Alyssa (Marcel), Shannon (Ben), Catherine, Scott, Austin, David, Richard, Ian, Michael, Katie and Emily. Richard’s beloved wife Mary passed earlier this year on January 10, 2021.

Richard was born in Cambria Heights, Queens, on April 23, 1937. He was the second child of Lester and Dorothy Newcomb. He had a wonderful childhood, with his older sister Janet. He enjoyed playing basketball and saxophone, as well as being part of the youth group at his local church. He joined the U.S. Army shortly after high school, and served two years in Germany. On March 17, 1959, he returned from his service, and asked his friend John Boos, to set him up on a date. That blind date took place on March 19, 1959, and he met Mary Laffey, who became his wife on June 24, 1961. Richard then earned his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Plattsburgh and his master’s degree from Columbia University on his journey to become a history teacher in the Center Moriches school district on Long Island. While there, he joined the New York State Teachers Association, quickly becoming the president of his local union chapter. While working for the union, he realized his other passion: advocacy. Richard was offered the opportunity to become a full-time field representative for the newly created New York State United Teachers around 1972. In his work, Richard became a very successful advocate, winning many arbitrations and gaining tremendous respect in the arbitration community.

At one point, Richard thought about attending law school, but realized, that law school would take too much time away from his family. There was nothing that Richard valued more than time with his family and together they traveled frequently, including a six-week cross country trip in 1979. Richard had a true love for his wife Mary’s homeland of Ireland, and they visited often, building a second home there in 1983. Richard retired in 1992, as soon as he was eligible, so he could spend more time with his family and pursue their love of traveling the world. It was wonderful to hear about all of their adventures each time they returned.

Richard and Mary spent their later retirement years living between Shoreham, NY, Lettergesh East, Ireland, and west Florida. In Florida, they pursued their love of golf, ultimately living in Spring Hill where they had a wonderful group of friends and neighbors whom they cherished. Richard, at 6’4” was a gentle giant who loved to play music and sing, read, and discuss current events. He was patient, kind, and loved his family more than we can put into words.

While we are truly heartbroken that he is no longer with us on earth, we know that he is with the love of his life, Mary. He also joins his sister Janet, and parents, Dorothy & Lester, and many other family members and friends who went before him, including his best friend Ed.

If you would like, please make a donation in Richard’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital:

https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html

We will miss him more than words can ever say. Richard gave his children clear advice in his last days, advising us all to “love love love.” We promise you Dad, we will love just like you did. We love you and will miss you terribly Dad and Grandpa. Private family services will be held later this year.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.obdavismillerplace.com for the Newcomb family.