Richard Paris, Age 73

Richard Paris was a physical education teacher by trade and a UFT member for 40 years, working at McKinley JHS 259 and Shallow IS 227, both in Brooklyn. His ability to connect with his pupils during the critically important development period of adolescence provided a roadmap that stretched far beyond the framework of traditional curriculum –– life lessons in team building, understanding human instinct, integrity, honesty, honor and fidelity were all central themes and key to his teachings. Richard also coached football for New Utrecht HS, his alma mater, and Nazareth and Xaverian High Schools, Brooklyn College and the Parkville Youth Organization.

He was so proud he could say he taught in five decades: the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. Throughout those decades he developed a very successful teaching style. He liked to say he “educained” the students. He was recognized in 1995 by the Association of Teachers of New York, which named him Teacher of the Year for his creative leadership and vision in education. His hobbies included bowling, photography, sewing, cooking and a love of music.

Richard leaves behind Martha, his wife, Richard, their son, and Rosanne Victor, his sister, and countless students, friends and neighbors who were all touched by his love and generosity. They will greatly miss him.