Richard Edsall

Richard “Rich” S. Edsall, 74 years of age, of Novelty, OH, died unexpectedly, but peacefully in his home on October 27, 2019.  He was born in East Haven, Connecticut to Eleanor Luchtenberg (Edsall) and Howard R. Edsall on August 11, 1945.  He graduated from Branford High School and went on to receive his Master of Art Degree in anthropology from Idaho State University.  He married Mary Ann Edsall (Dyer) on May 23, 1970 in Kimble Battery Park, Washington, DC.  They adopted their only daughter, Melissa, in February 1978.  Richard and Mary Ann were married for 47 years.  Richard worked for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) in Cleveland, OH for several years before retiring and living out the rest of his natural life in Novelty. He had a genuine interest and love for nature, knowledge and a good discussion. He could often be found “playing” in his garden or digging in the dirt.  He enjoyed hikes, kayaking, traveling and taking care of his cat, Baracka.  He also enjoyed spending hours in the library expanding his knowledge of mathematics or history.  Above all, he took great pride in his wife, Mary Ann and his daughter, Melissa. 

Richard S. Edsall is preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary Ann Edsall, Eleanor Edsall (Mother), Howard R. Edsall (Father) and Linda Edsall Winward (Sister).  

Richard S. Edsall is survived by his daughter Melissa J. Edsall (French), and Brian T. French (spouse), Barbara Ann Dyer (dear niece), George Dyer (dear nephew), Richard Booth (cousin), Robin Booth (cousin), Bonnie Cameron (cousin), Polly Gustems (cousin), Nan O’Brien (cousin), Jane Kochman (dearest family friend) and Baracka (cherished cat). 

A private memorial service will be established later in which Mary Ann and Richard Edsall will be laid to their final resting place in Hamburg, New Jersey.