Richard T. Horigan

Richard T. Horigan, a practicing trial attorney for more than fifty years, passed away peacefully at home in Amsterdam, NY. He was 90.

Born in Scranton, PA, on June 26, 1925, son of Timothy Leo Horigan and Alice Hanna Horigan, his father was a retail executive in the eastern United States. Richard, known as Dick, enlisted in the US Navy at age 17. Upon completion of his service in World War II, he entered Georgetown University. Following graduation from college he enrolled in Georgetown University Law School. Dick credited his Jesuit training, which began in high school, as a foundation for a life of discipline and integrity.

In 1951, Dick began what would become a long and successful law career in Amsterdam. He was a member of the American Bar Association and the American College of Trial Lawyers. His son and long time partner, Timothy, continues to lead the firm of Horigan, Horigan & Lombardo, P.C.

In addition to practicing law, Dick was committed to the outdoors as a self-described “three-season athlete” — bird-hunter in fall, downhill skier in winter, and golfer in summer. He also enjoyed summertime horse racing at the Saratoga Race Course.

In honor of Dick’s 90th birthday this past June, Congressman Paul D. Tonko marked the milestone celebration with a special tribute on the House floor honoring Dick for his professional career, commitment to his community,and a life well lived.

Dick was predeceased by his wives Marie Smeallie Horigan and Eleanor Harrower Smeallie Horigan, his daughter Mary Catherine “Kitty” Bosherini, and his brother Timothy Horigan.

He is survived by his children Timothy Horigan, Agnes Baker, Christine Horigan, Richard “Duke” Horigan, Hanna Horigan, James Horigan, J.D. Smeallie, Peter Smeallie, John Smeallie, Melanie Mbuyi, Christopher Smeallie, Shawn Smeallie, 33 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Alice Caires and Mary Catherine Frank and many nieces and nephews.

The Horigan Smeallie Family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dick’s team of caregivers: Karen and Chad; Dr. Sheridan; Betsy, Colleen, Deb, Donna, Eileen, Erica, Jean, Lonna, Michelle, Nancy, Sarah, Sue, Wanda; Brian, Calvin, T.J.; and the staff at Home Helpers.

Dick Horigan was a man of strong faith and a consummate gentleman, who never lost his exuberance for life. He will be sorely missed.

Funeral services will be held Saturday morning at 11:00 at the Riley Mortuary, Inc., 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, NY, followed at 12:00 p.m. by a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Church, 156 East Main Street, Amsterdam.

Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fort Johnson, NY.

Calling hours are Saturday morning from 9:00 to 11:00 at the Riley Mortuary.

Memorial gifts in Dick’s name may be made to St. Mary’s Healthcare Foundation, 427 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010.