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Richard H. Meade, a veteran and lifelong public servant, passed away on May 16, 2025. Born in Paterson, New Jersey, Richard grew up in nearby Hawthorne and graduated from Hawthorne High School in 1961. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in American Thought and Civilization from George Washington University in 1965, an academic foundation that reflected his deep interest in history, culture, and the principles of American democracy. In 1966, Richard enlisted in the U.S. Army Intelligence Agency. His assignments took him to West Berlin, Germany, and later to Viet Nam, where he served with distinction. Following his military service, Richard built a career in civil service, working entirely in intelligence roles for the U.S. Customs Service, where he played a critical part in the nation's drug interdiction efforts. His commitment to safeguarding the country's borders and supporting public safety spanned decades and reflected both his sense of duty and his quiet resolve. Read full obituary