Richard Donald (“Dick”) True, 87, of Branford, died peacefully on Feb. 10 at Apple Rehab Guilford, surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of 64 years to Mary Ann Demers True. Richard was born on Dec. 19, 1925 in Portland, Maine, son of the late Maurice and Edith True. He had served his country during World War II as a sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corps and was a radio technician preparing for the Berlin Air Lift.

Richard graduated from the University of Maine with degree in mathematics. He continued his education, earning a master’s degree at Central Connecticut State College, and taught Junior High School and Middle School math in Branford for 30 years until 1982.

After retirement, Richard continued to serve Branford, working for the Recreation Department in various positions. He was also elected to the Branford Education Hall of Fame in 2003. His involvement in Branford made him a recognized and respected member of his community. In addition, Richard was a faithful parishioner for 50 years at Saint Mary’s Church in Branford and was one of the earliest lectors to participate in church services.

His family extends their sincerest thanks to the entire staff at Apple Rehab Guilford, whose dedication and caring helped Richard and his family over the past three years. 

Besides his beloved wife, Richard is survived by four children and their spouses, Richard and Karen True of Branford, Margaret and James Bruno of Branford, John and Joan True of Palmyra, Virginia, and Stephen and Tina True of Kennebunk, Maine. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Richard, Stephen, Justin, Kathleen, Elizabeth, Joshua, Jamie, and Dawn; his great-grandchild, Cameron; several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, Maurice, Jr. and Robert, and his infant daughter, Anne Louise.

Family and friends may call on Friday, Feb. 15, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main St., Branford. His funeral procession will depart from the funeral home on Saturday, Feb.16, at 9:30 a.m., for a mass of Christian burial at Saint Mary Church, Branford, at 10 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Apple Rehab Guilford, 10 Boston Post Rd., Guilford, CT 06437.  For directions and online memorial see www.wsclancy.com.