Richard Walter Huckaby Sr., of New Haven, Connecticut, was born on July 9, 1938, and entered into eternal rest on August 28, 2026. His life was marked by faith, family, service, laughter, and a presence that was impossible to overlook.

Richard shared more than six decades of marriage with the love of his life, Annie Huckaby. They were married on April 8, 1961, and hold the distinction of being the very first couple married at Whitney Avenue Church of Christ. Their marriage became the foundation of a life built on devotion, partnership, faith, and family. Richard loved Annie deeply and wholeheartedly, and even in his final days, he remained committed to caring for her and making sure she knew just how much she was loved.

Richard was the proud father of four children: Richard Huckaby Jr., Sherry Looney, Stacey Houston, and Melissa Young, and her husband, Michael. His legacy continued through his 11 grandchildren: Charon Smalls and his wife, Samantha Smalls; Chaz Elbert and his wife, Shawna Elbert; Donte Looney; Richard C. Huckaby III; LaKendra Huckaby and her husband, Jimmy White; Makai Young; Dylaun Young; Kayliss Young; Jacarie Houston; Jaylin Houston; Taylor Houston; and Ebony Armour. He was also blessed with 15 great-grandchildren, who brought great joy to his life.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Reuben Huckaby Sr. and Mattie Huckaby. He leaves to cherish his memory his twin brother, Reuben Huckaby Jr. and his wife, Carol Huckaby, of Hamden; his sisters, Sarah Hunter of New Haven, Lillian Huckaby of New Haven, and Carolyn Harrison of Utah; along with a host of extended family members, church family, and friends.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army from August 2, 1955, through June 27, 1958, spending much of his military service in Libya. After completing his military service, he worked at the Winchester Repeating Arms Company factory and later devoted more than 15 years to The Kitchen Company.

Richard also had a lifelong love for antiques. He particularly enjoyed collecting, refinishing, and selling his finds at local flea markets. Annie never know what “junk” might end up at the house. Those unexpected treasures became part of the humor, character, and rhythm of their life together. Yet, Richard spent much of his adulthood selling “junk” and operating a moving business to support the needs of the needs of his family and the work of the church.

Faith was at the center of Richard’s life. He was a devoted member of Gem Street Church of Christ, where he faithfully served for more than 50 years. His service to the church was extensive and deeply meaningful. Over the years, he served as a Deacon, Bible study teacher, van driver, church cleaner, member of the Benevolent Ministry, and founder of the church food program. He did not simply attend church; he served it, supported it, and poured himself into the people who called it home.

Richard was truly a man of service, and his presence could fill a room. He was big in stature and even bigger in personality. He was known for his huge smile, booming voice, infectious laugh, welcoming spirit, encouraging words, and wonderfully terrible dad jokes. He had a way of making people feel seen and included, and he often brought both comfort and laughter wherever he went.

Richard lived a life rooted in faith, family, love, and service. His legacy will live on through the wife he adored, the family he helped build, the church he faithfully served, and the countless lives touched by his generosity, humor, encouragement, and unforgettable presence.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

A celebration of Mr. Huckaby's life will be held Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. at New Haven Church of Christ, 16 Gem St., New Haven, followed by burial in State Veterans' Cemetery, Middletown, CT. Family and friends may attend a viewing at the church from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.