Richard A. Darling

Obituary of Richard A. Darling Richard passed away January 7, 2018, at age 71 at Upstate Medical Center after an ongoing illness. Richard was the son of Lela and Kenneth L. Darling of Oswego. At an early age it was determined that he had cerebral palsy and was relinquished to foster care until 1952 when he was admitted to the Rome Developmental Center where he remained for 26 years. He had the opportunity to move to a smaller residence in Central Square in 1978 and finally in 2005 to the Sabill IRA, in Mexico, where he was regarded with respect and provided with opportunities to realize his potential, develop friendships and avail himself of community life. He enjoyed going to concerts, sporting events, participating in an ATV group and especially going shopping and dining out. Prior to his retirement Richard was employed at Oswego Industries. Richard was a loving, caring person who enjoyed the company of others, sharing in a good joke. His laughter was infectious. As said of him by Walter Snyder, former team leader of the Fulton DDSO, “ Richard was quite a guy, I think many of us learned a lot from him and how he led his life in the face of many obstacles. It was his basic dignity and strength that drew people to him.” He is finally, really home. Richard is survived by his guardian and friend Grace Whitbeck of Oneonta, NY, his many friends and staff of the Sabill IRA. There is no information regarding surviving family members. Burial services are being provided by Foster Funeral Home, Inc. of Fulton, NY. Richard’s remains will be placed with his mother’s at his request. A grave side service will take place on May 10th at 11:00 a.m. at the Fairdale Cemetery, Hannibal. Friends are invited to participate in this service.