Harold Homefield

Retired Naval Commander Harold D Homefield, PhD, passed away Friday night, December 28, 2018. Born March 22, 1919 Dr. Homefield was 99 years old. He was an accomplished educator, speech therapist, and Naval officer.

Commander Homefield volunteered to join the Navy in WWII, starting active duty immediately after graduating from college. One of the “90-day wonders,” Harold was promoted rapidly and served most of his tour as commander of the USS Phenakite, a yacht converted to anti-submarine patrol craft. After the war, Lt. Homefield joined the Naval Reserve, eventually retiring holding the rank of Commander.

Dr. Homefield was determined to earn his PhD in speech therapy, which he did over years of exceptional scholarship at NYU, while working at several jobs to support his family. His commitment to education led to numerous academic positions including Principal of Pelham HS in New York and Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Wilmington MA. He also taught speech at Pace College and treated individual speech impaired individuals.

Harold was married to Edith Beer in 1942. Edith passed in May of this year. They are survived by their three children, Joan, Brenda and Roger. Harold was the grandfather of six children and the great-grandfather of eight. He enjoyed sharing his history with his beloved family and participating in family gatherings.

Around Sudbury, he was well known and much liked by town officials and business personnel. He was awarded the Boston Post Cane in 2015 where he gave a charming address at age 96. Harold recorded an engaging interview as part of the Natick Veterans Oral History Project, providing anecdotal insights into his life and times.