WATERBURY- Richard William Palizay, 97, formerly of Naugatuck, passed away Saturday, November 14, 2020 at Cheshire House. He was the widower of Mary (Myhalyk) Palizay who predeceased him in 2011 after 61 years of marriage. Mr. Palizay was born January 6, 1923 in Elmira, NY son of the late Albert and Josephine (Tolsz) Palizay. Richard enlisted in the army during WWII and served as a First Lieutenant. He was grateful for the G I Bill that enabled him to attain a BS in chemical engineering at University of Rochester and later, a Masters degree. After 40 years Richard retired from Uniroyal Richard was an avid golfer, loved to read and watch history on TV. In his later years he was a literacy volunteer. Richard is survived by children Jim and his wife Jane Palizay of Brunswick, ME, Judy DiVito of Naugatuck, and Liz and her husband Dave Weber of Winter Haven, FL; his sister Betty Wilson Walcott; grandchildren Gabe and Ben Palizay, Allie and Jeff DiVito, and Sarah, Jonathan, and Rachel. Also, great grandchildren Reign, Serena, Eva, Alana, Raiden, and Rowen. He was predeceased by his siblings Eleanor Andrus, and Robert and Jack Palizay. A graveside service with full military honors for Mr. Palizay will be held 10:30 A.M, Wednesday November 18, 2020 at St. James Cemetery, Cross St, Naugatuck, 06770. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the graveside. Burial will follow after the service and there are no calling hours. The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Naugatuck, 201 Meadow St, 06770 is assisting the family with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers donations in his name can be made to ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Smile Train, PO Box 96231, Washington, D.C. 20090-6231, Checks should be made payable to: Smile Train.