Richard Paul March

Richard was born at home in Danville, Illinois to his parents Dorothy Grey March and Herman Lee Edward March (now deceased).  Those also awaiting his arrival at home were his four older siblings:  Marlene Davis, Sonja Fowler, Ronald March (wife, Barbara March), and Katherine March (now deceased).  Everyone was anxiously awaiting the arrival of “Duffy”, that loving nickname given to Richard even as he grew each month in that precious bump in his mother’s tummie.

          As Duffy grew, he was also loved and groomed by a host of relatives, namely:  cousins, uncles, aunts, neighborhood friends and strict grandparents; Mr. & Mrs. Robert (Novella) March and Mr. & Mrs. Katie (Smith) and Guy Jones.

          At an early age, Duffy attended the Shiloh Baptist Church in Danville with his family.  This experience was instrumental in nurturing his Christian upbringing.   He also enjoyed listening to his father’s bass voice as it boomed out in harmony with an octave group known as the Benevolent Gospel Singers that broadcasted over the radio every Sunday morning.

          Duffy received his early childhood education while living in Danville but later in life relocated to Detroit, Michigan where he resided with his sister Sonja and graduated from Northwestern High School in 1963.  That same year he enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned to military duty in North Viet Nam.  After becoming wounded in that war, he was released to a military VA medical facility back in the United States.

          Duffy lived an independent productive and self-sustaining life for a while until his war memories and bodily wounds overcame him, and he relapsed and could no longer cope independently.  He became a ward of the VA and remained in their medical and hostel care until his demise. 

          Duffy never married or sired any children.  He will be sorely missed by us all who knew and loved him.

A Homegoing Celebration will commence at 12:00 Noon on Monday November 15, 2021 at New Life Church of Faith 1419 N. Bowman Ave. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of the service. Burial will follow after at Danville National Cemetery.

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