Obituary of Richard Lee Hartford

Richard Lee Hartford, 82, of Scott, NY, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center.

Born in Cortland County on August 7, 1944, he was the son of the late Raymond and Lulu (nee Adamson). Richard graduated from Cortland High School in 1964, where he enjoyed a successful wrestling career. He proudly continued his passion for the sport while enlisted in the United States Army from July 1965 to June 1967.

Following his military service, Richard was a dedicated employee with a strong work ethic at the Brewer-Titchener Corporation (later Cooper Tools) metal fabrication plant in Cortland from 1967 until his retirement in 2007. Richard also had a deep, lifelong passion for farming. He owned and operated a small beef farm on Cold Brook Road from 1972 to 1989, and continued farming after moving to Route 41 in Scott, NY, which he operated right up until his passing.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Nancy (nee Lorows); his sons, Richard Lee, Jr. (wife Holly) and Chip (husband William Deal); and his cherished grandsons, Nathan and Joshua. He is also survived by his siblings, James and Margaret, as well as many extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings Mabel, Edythe, and Larry.

A celebration of life event will be hosted by the family at:

The Center for the Arts
72 South Main Street, Homer, NY
Saturday, September 26, 12 – 3 pm