The Carver community is deeply saddened by the loss of Richard "Ricky" Fuller Jr., a dedicated advocate for Carver youth and a champion of higher education.

Following in his father's footsteps, Richard Fuller Sr., who served Norwalk's youth as a teacher, Board of Education member, and longtime executive director of The Carver, Ricky was a constant presence in the Carver community, especially as a basketball coach and mentor.

Just yesterday, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin and the 27 students on Carver's 52nd Spring College Tour visited Virginia Union University. VUU, a premier Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is the alma mater of many Carver family members, including Richard Fuller Sr., Ricky Fuller, and former Carver student and CT State Representative Kadeem Roberts. VUU's motto of "offering the promise of a limitless future" resonated with Ricky, who instilled that belief in countless Carver students.

Ricky Fuller had been the Norwalk High School’s Bears' head coach for 15 years before stepping down following a 2018-19 season in which they were 28-0. Before that, he was a long-time assistant to Fred English, with whom he won three straight FCIAC titles from 1999-2001 and a state title during an unbeaten season in 2000. 

As a beloved basketball coach and English teacher at Norwalk High, surely one of Ricky's most memorable moments came in 2019 when he coached the Norwalk High School girls' basketball team to the thrilling state championship win at Mohegan Sun. Under Ricky's guidance and the off-season coaching of Carver's Recreation Coordinator Shannon Singleton-Bates, the Lady Bears gave their all on the court – a testament to Ricky's unwavering dedication throughout his exemplary life. In this final, Norwalk trailed by 11 points after three quarters but rallied with a 19-6 fourth quarter to make history. Naeva Rene scored the game-winning basket on a lay-up with two seconds remaining, and the Bears took the title 55-53.

The Fuller family's ties to the Carver community span decades, and Ricky's loss is deeply felt. His impact on Norwalk's youth, both on and off the court, will forever be cherished. During this challenging time, the Carver community extends its heartfelt condolences to Ricky's family and loved ones. We wish you peace and healing as we join you in grieving our profound loss.

Funeral Arrangements: Tuesday, April 23, at Grace Baptist Church, 17 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT. Wake from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Funeral at 12:30 p.m.