Cono Richard "Dick" Borrelli, Sr.

Captain Dick Borrelli has taken his final flight on November 25, 2024, soaring into the skies he loved so dearly, bound for the pearly gates of heaven-a destination that completes the last adventure on his bucket list. His was a life well-lived and filled with blessings. He found love not just once, but twice, and built a beautiful family whose love surrounded him. His grandchildren and great grandchildren brought him endless joy, and his worldly travels fed his curiosity and his appetite-especially for the countless cuisines he proudly explored as a self-proclaimed "foodie." Dick was a captivating storyteller, spinning tales so vivid and entertaining they became part of the family lore, leaving everyone hanging on his every word. He had a passion for cars (particularly his cherished Porsches and VWs), airplanes, and the challenge of fixing anything that was broken-he was a master problem solver. Always quick with advice that was almost always right (and rarely wrong), he matched his intellect with a good dose of stubbornness and a sharp, unmistakable sense of humor. His "New York" wit could light up any room, leaving us laughing and shaking our heads in equal measure. Born on July 18, 1931, to Mary Margaret Gallagher and Cono Valentino Borrelli in Queens, NY. He is survived by his son Cono R. Borrelli Jr (Dawn), son Terry Borrelli (Crissy) and his daughter Melissa Borrelli (Devin Nutter). His Grandchildren, Josh Smith, Sean Borrelli (Marli), Lauren Borrelli, Kylie Borrelli, Allysa Borrelli, Charlotte Nutter and his Great Grandchildren, Leiland Merrill, Larsin Borrelli and Leiyla Borrelli. His partner and best friend, Jane Augustine. His extended children, Doug Augustine (Andrea), Jennifer Tullis (Josh) and his extended grandchildren, Grant Augustine, James Augustine, Jane Tullis, Sam Tullis and William Tullis. His loving sister, Collen Gibbens. Dick was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane Borrelli and his daughter, Lisa Borrelli. Dick grew up in Mattituck, New York, and pursued higher education in Vermont before proudly joining the Marine Corps. As a Marine fighter pilot, he soared through the skies, flying cutting-edge aircraft off naval carriers with unmatched skill and dedication. His service took him to remarkable locations such as the Philippines and Hawaii, where he balanced his duties with camaraderie, an occasional cocktail, and a cigarette in hand- classic Dick style. After his time in the military, Dick transitioned to a career as a commercial airline pilot with Eastern Airlines, famously known as The Wings of Man. While based in New York, he met the love of his life, Jane Borrelli. In true aviation fashion, the pilot married the flight attendant, beginning a "happily ever after" that lasted 56 wonderful years. The couple later settled in Georgia, where Dick continued his career at Eastern Airlines until his retirement. Never one to sit still, he founded the Silver Falcons, a retirement group for Eastern Airlines (rEAL) pilots and flight attendants and delighted in creating newsletters and organizing their annual conferences. Retirement didn't mean slowing down for Dick. He worked as a flight instructor for McDonnell Douglas and later for Delta Airlines, finally retiring well into his 70s. Even then, he lived life to the fullest, spending his 70s, 80s, and 90s traveling, reading, and cherishing time with family and friends. Dick charted a course through life with an indomitable spirit, an endless love for adventure, and stories that will live on in our hearts. Now, he takes to the skies one last time-on the wings of our love and memories. Dick was a member of St. George Catholic Church, 771 Roscoe Rd, Newnan GA (770) 251- 5353. He was cremated according to his wishes. There will be a funeral mass on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, at 10:30am at the church followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, we have set up a Dick Borrelli Scholarship Fund through the Newnan Kiwanis Club. Make your check payable to the Newnan Kiwanis Scholarship Fund, P.O Box 313, Newnan GA. 30264, Attn: Dick Borrelli Scholarship Donation. The scholarship is awarded annually to recipient(s) who are deserving incoming freshmen or undergraduate students. It puts the availability for a young person who without that support might not be able to take the next step towards higher education. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.mckoon.com McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory 770-253-4580

Cono Richard "Dick" Borrelli, Sr.

July 18, 1931 - November 25, 2024