It is with incalculable sadness that we announce the passing of Richard M. Langworth CBE, who died peacefully in the early morning hours of February 20th, 2025, at the age of 83.
Summarizing the life of a man who accomplished so much and positively affected so many is an impossible task. Fortunately, he documented much of it himself — 726 blog posts remain as a testament to his passion for history, automobiles, and the enduring legacy of Sir Winston S. Churchill. His work extended beyond this site with dozens of books, written or edited, and hundreds of published magazine and journal articles. Fittingly, his final blog post was titled Life and Living — an apt reflection of a man who lived with purpose and determination.
Alas, I am unqualified to provide even the smallest biography. His contributions about classic English and American cars are too numerous, and his dedication to Churchill’s legacy defies summary. I can only gesture towards his 2005 speech at the Pritzker Military Museum & Library, in which he discusses Churchill’s The Dream. That speech exemplifies his best traits: passion for his work, encyclopedic knowledge, and a sense of humor that usually landed. But beyond his work, he was a father, a husband, and a friend.
I will always remember my father in his true habitat: in an office, hunched over a keyboard, typing with profuse concentration and surrounded by the hundreds of books, magazines, and other memorabilia that inspired and helped define him. His office wasn’t messy, just crammed full of meticulously organized knowledge with every reference at his fingertips.
How I wish to see him at home and happy once again, whether feet up and cigar in hand on the deck of his house in Eleuthera, or feeling proud and exhausted after returning from another bike ride, or grinning triumphantly after a decisive roll in Settlers of Catan. I’ll forever retain my fond memories of the room-sized model train set we built in the barn, or the tall plumes of snow firing from his tractor as he cleared the driveway in New Hampshire winters, or biking with him through the hills of California’s wine country. I’ll sorely miss sharing a dram of Scotch, a hearty snack, and recalling a scene from one of our favorite movies.
I have been, and always shall be, your friend. Live long and prosper, Dad.
— Ian Langworth
Richard M. Langworth is survived by his wife, Barbara; his son, Ian (Emily); and his grandchildren, Michael and Aiden.