Richard Gordon Babbitt's Obituary
Richard Gordon Babbitt of Fort Myers, Florida and formerly of Wood Ridge, New Jersey and Belleville, New Jersey, passed away Friday, January 29, 2016 at Citrus Gardens of Fort Myers, Florida. He was 90 years old. Richard was born March 2, 1925 in Newark, New Jersey to the late Walter Howard and Mary Luttmann Babbitt. At the age of 18 in the midst of WWII, he entered the United States Army as a Surgical Technician (Medic) and was deployed to the European theatre where he was presented the prestigious Silver Star – the third highest military combat decoration of the U. S. Armed Forces. In addition to the Silver Star, Richard was also awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in combat. He graduated from the University of Alabama and remained an avid Crimson Tide football fan. His professional career took him to CBS Publishing Division where he worked and retired as a Credit Manager. In addition to his commitment to career and family, Richard volunteered as a scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America. He was a loyal member of the Masonic Lodge, notably the Copestone – Ophir Lodge #108 F. & A. M. of Kearny, New Jersey. Richard was also a 60+ year member of the Scottish Rite 32nd Degree and was active in the Araba Shrine of Fort Myers. Richard served faithfully as a member of St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church of Fort Myers, Florida. He will be sorely missed. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Walter Howard Babbitt, III. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of 60+ years, Marie T. Babbitt; two sons, David Babbitt and Donald Babbitt (Paulette) and his grandson, Shane Parker Babbitt. Richard also leaves behind his companion and friend, his dog Daphne. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held 1:00 p.m., Sunday, February 7, 2016 at St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church 5011 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33901. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his honor are suggested to the Shriners Hospitals for Children 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607 or St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church 5011 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33901. Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared on Richard’s tribute page at www.fortmyersmemorial.com
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