Richard H. Aldridge, 97, of Massena

MASSENA, New York (WWNY) - Richard H. Aldridge, age 97, of Windsor Road, passed away peacefully at Massena Hospital on Monday May 22, 2023. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to the care and expertise of the Phillips Memorial Home in Massena, NY.

Family and friends are welcome to call the Phillips Memorial on Tuesday May 30, 2023 from 11:00 AM until time of services at 1:00 PM with Pastor Colin Lucid officiating. Burial to follow immediately after funeral service in Louisville Community Cemetery with full military honors.

Richard was born on August 19, 1925 in Chazy, NY to the late Hiram and Cora (LaFountain) Aldridge. Richard was drafted into the United States Army, and served proudly during WWII, and was a recipient of the Purple Heart.

After his return from the war, Richard was married to Rita LaGrave on October 15, 1946 at the Church of The Sacred Heart with the Rev. Michael Jerwechsi officiating. He and his wife Rita worked on their family business at Aldridge Used Car Sales in Massena.

Richard was a life member of the AMVETS Post No. 4 and Massena Elks Lodge No. 170, the American Legion Post No. 79 and the VFW Post No. 1143.

He is survived by his special friend and longtime companion, Marjorie Graham, his children Michael R. and wife Barbara of Jacksonville, FL, Mark Aldridge and companion Ruth Petra of Massena, NY, and a daughter Lynn Aldridge of Massena, NY. Richard is also survived by four half-brothers; Carl, Marvin, Colin and Charles Brown, a half-sister Kitty Durfesne, a son in-law Arnold Vallance along with seven grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Richard was predeceased by wife loving wife Rita LaGrave of 54 years, a daughter Colleen Vallance, brothers Harold and Kenneth Aldridge, a half-brother Jack Brown and a sister Helen Ibey.

Memorial contributions in Richards name may be shared with Calvary Baptist Church;

Family and friends are encourage to share memories, online condolence and pictures by visiting www.PhillipsMemorial.com