Richard A. Whitford

Richard Arnold Whitford, 72, of Baltimore, MD, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2017 at Hospice of the Chesapeake, Pasadena, MD.  Richard, a Maryland native, was born in the Baltimore area on January 23, 1945, and spent his professional career in public service.  A graduate of Loyola College in Baltimore, he completed graduate studies at Brown University in Providence, R.I., and The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.  After teaching for nine years in Baltimore County high schools, he landed a job as a training specialist in the U.S. Census Bureau.  From there he made a lasting impact in Human Resource operations for more than 25 years.  This included assignments at the Naval Sea Systems Command, the Office of Personnel Management, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), where he served as the Assistant Administrator of Human Resources.  He was an exceptional federal executive, servant leader, colleague, and friend. Richard loved the Baltimore area and the NC Coast, history, travel, antiquities, and economics.  But more than that, he loved people, and his beloved dogs.  It was his great delight to affirm the good in people, spot talent, and enable people to flourish toward their greatest abilities and opportunities to contribute.  He was a man of great faith, integrity, purpose, courage, humor, and tenacity. He had a tremendous gift for listening, caring, and imparting wisdom in a humble way.  As a son, Richard selflessly and lovingly cared for his mother, Nancy Sara Whitford, through years of dementia.  In the last year, Richard demonstrated remarkable courage and was an inspiration to others as he dealt with extensive medical challenges, due to severe complications from routine surgery.  He persevered despite the unexpected turn of events, was never bitter, and was always kind and gracious to all who helped him. Richard’s winning smile and presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  His love and spirit are forever imprinted on our hearts. A Celebration of Richard’s Life is planned for March 24, 2017.  A small gathering is reserved for close family and friends at Gardens of Faith Cemetery, 5598 Trumps Mill Road, Baltimore, MD 21206, at 11 AM.  At noon, all are invited to honor Richard with a time of remembrance at McFaul’s IronHorse Tavern, 2260 Cromwell Bridge Road, Parkville, MD 21234.  Questions regarding the event may be directed to Jennifer Whitt @ Jenniferkwhitt@icloud.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1008 W 37th Street, Baltimore, MD, 21211 or the Maryland Husky Rescue organization @ www.husky.rescueme.org/maryland.