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Richard Frederick Johnson of Branford passed away peacefully on Aug. 8. Richard was born in New Haven on Aug. 5, 1945 to the late Eric and Marion (Anderson) Johnson. Richard predeceased his sister Lorie Hunt of Florida and brothers Bruce Johnson of Coventry and Craig Johnson of San Diego, California.

He (Nancy Jones) was father to Bret Chambers Johnson (Carley) and Douglas William Johnson (Amy), both of Branford. Richard is also survived by his six beautiful grandchildren, Paige, Grady, Elijah, Noah, Emmie, and Kai. He leaves behind his longtime companion, Diane Morgan of North Haven.

Subsequent to graduating from Southern Connecticut State University, with his love for fitness at heart, Richard prided himself on being a physical education teacher at the Branford Intermediate School for 35 years. He also went on to earn his captain’s license for love of being on the water, and for many years was employed as a captain of Sea Tow and the Shelter Island Ferry. He has been a member of the Branford Yacht Club since 1973 and enjoyed spending time on his Grady White at the marina. Richard always had a great love for the outdoors, especially when it came to fishing and hunting. He shared a lifetime of great experiences doing both with lifelong friends of his, including the late Howie Johnson, Louie Uhl, and Harry Conte. Richard was also an avid runner, gymnast, and tennis player.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 16, at the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 17, at Beaverdale Memorial Park in New Haven. Please see his online memorial at www.wsclancy.com.