Richard “Dick” Abbott Dolby

MERIDEN, Conn. – Richard “Dick” Abbott Dolby, 76, of Maine, died peacefully in Meriden, Conn., on Dec. 11, 2025, surrounded by his family. His last year was marked by a struggle with dementia, but he was thankfully able to remain at home, cared for by those who loved him.

Born in Saco on Sept. 30, 1949, Dick was the youngest child of Lawrence and Esther Dolby. As a child he contracted polio at the age of 3 and was ill for more than a year, an early challenge that shaped his resilience.

He graduated from Thornton Academy in Saco and briefly attended Bentley College before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps during the height of the Vietnam War, serving two years and later continuing his service in the Army Reserve.

Following his military service, Dick initially set his sights on becoming a Maine State Trooper, but once at the Academy he followed in his father’s footsteps and became a State Fire Investigator. In 1987, he joined the City of Augusta as Director of Code Enforcement, a role in which he was widely respected for his deep knowledge of building codes and his steady, serious approach.

After retiring, he put that expertise to work by founding his own consulting business, MUBEC, helping communities interpret and implement building and energy codes.

Over the course of his career, Dick earned a degree in Fire Science, taught night classes in fire science and building construction, and became a Master Maine Guide, a self-directed achievement he was especially proud of. He was a 32nd degree Mason and active in the Masons and Scottish Rite, finding community and purpose in service and ritual.

Dick was serious and thoughtful, with a lifelong love of history and the military, and a deep dedication to his family. He enjoyed hunting trips with friends and riding motorcycles with his best friend, Rick Charest. He also loved time outdoors and camping, and he took great satisfaction in guiding others safely in the woods and on the water.

In 1977, Dick married Billiann, beginning a 48‑year journey together. They built a home in Windsor where they lived for more than 20 years and raised their three children. In 2005, they moved to Hallowell, where they made many dear friends and Dick served on the Hallowell Water Board and as code enforcement officer in Hallowell, Vassalboro, and other Maine communities.

In June 2025, Dick and Billiann moved to Connecticut to be closer to their now‑adult children and their families, including six grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

Dick’s faith life began in the Untied Baptist Church of his childhood Saco and later found a home at St. Giles Episcopal Church in Jefferson where he was part of the community for many years. In the words of his favorite son‑in‑law, “Richard was happiest when his family was happy.”

Dick is survived by his wife, Billiann; his children Joshua and Melissa (Hugo); Andrew and Jessica (Rosalyn and Oscar); and Molly and Roberto (Aurora, Orion and Sky); his sister, Hannah Whittaker and her husband Paul; and his godson, Wyatt Charest. He also leaves behind extended family, fellow Masons, colleagues, and friends who will miss his steady presence and wry, thoughtful nature.

An informal gathering in celebration of Dick’s life will be held on May 3 at Maple Hill Farm in Hallowell, from 1 to 3 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to share stories, memories, and fellowship in his honor.