Mr. Willie Richardson

As Psalm 37 says: The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: And he delighted in his way.

On Wednesday, February, 12, 2025, the Lord called one of his faithful servants, Willie James Richardson, age 77, of Marshall, home after a courageous and gallant battle with cancer. Mr. Richardson was born July 27, 1947, to Paul Richardson and Edna Shaw Richardson.
 

He married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Moody Richardson, Sept. 6, 1969. To this union were born three beautiful daughters- the late Nikita Richardson Jackson (Narvis), Kimberly Richardson Miles (Williams), and Robin Yevett Richardson; and two lovely granddaughters, Najah LaPraise Jackson and Raven Michole Bernoudy, who affectionately called him “Paw Paw” and were the apples of his eye.
He was also known as Dad to Keyonya Johnson and Veronica Eatmon. He was additionally known as Grandad to MaKayla Johnson, Malia George, Jaidyn Flanagan, Kynsley Alexander, Peyton Johnson, Kristian Eatmon, Jordan Eatmon, Chaisson Miles, Anasia (Miles) Hall, Perri Miles, Kiaira Miles, Kyle Miles, Chelsey Miles, James Miles, Isaiah Miles, and Jaceyln Miles.
 

Mr. Richardson graduated from H.B. Pemberton High School where he was a standout baseball player and an immensely proud graduate of the Class of 1965. He earned his degree in agriculture from Panola Junior College along with a certification in welding.
 

A visionary leader and highly skilled contractor, Mr. Richardson owned and operated his own business, Richardson Construction, for nearly 40 years where he utilized his talent, providing everything from home construction to renovation and restoration projects and more. It was a craft he learned from his mentor, Mr. U.S. Boyd, and something he paid forward by providing job opportunities to aspiring contractors, relatives and friends, who were seeking to learn the craft while making an honest living to
feed their families.
 

Known for his heart of gold, reputable skills and expertise, Mr. Richardson worked up until his passing as it was important to him to continue to provide an invaluable service as well as employment for his loyal employees. In fact, it was such a labor of love that it wasn’t uncommon to see him atop of a roof, with cane in tow, making roof repairs, or underneath a home assessing its foundation. Throughout his career, Mr. Richardson was given the honor to contract several projects for the City of Marshall as well as serve as a member of the city’s Planning and Zoning Board.
 

As a very devoted member of Union Missionary Baptist Church, Mr. Richardson faithfully served in various roles, including Sunday School teacher, treasurer, choir member and Sunday School Superintendent. Mr. Richardson’s latest role was Chairman of the Deacon Board, an honor he diligently served for more than 30 years.
 

Mr. Richardson was initially ordained as a deacon on Oct. 25, 1981. Affectionately called “Deac”, the young men of the church looked to him as not only a church leader, but a wise teacher of life, whom they highly respected. Most recently, for the church’s November 2024 Anniversary, he was presented a special award by Pastor Jessie and Erica Russell in recognition of his dedication, support and faithful hard work. Deacon Richardson’s love for the Lord showed not only through his fervent teachings and benevolent spirit, but also through his powerful rendition of his favorite devotional song, “Guide Me O,Though Great Jehovah,” which he’s uniquely known for in the church community.
 

A Vietnam Veteran, Mr. Richardson served in the United States Army from 1966-1968. Mr. Richardson was bestowed several military awards, including the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze service stars, and a bronze star. As a veteran, Mr. Richardson was a proud member of the American Legion George A. Thompson Post #878 where he currently served as Sergeant at Arms.
 

Some of his favorite past times included fishing with his family at their family pond. In his heyday, he also enjoyed racing his showcase horse, “Star,” winning several trophies. He additionally loved eating homemade pecan pie from his daughter, Kim, of Ms. Kim’s Pecan Treats & More. A strong pillar in the community, Mr. Richardson was known to selflessly help anyone in their time of need. He didn’t meet a stranger. Many called him a dear friend.
 

To his wife, he was her forever love and her rock, who always went above and beyond, showing his love for his family. To his children and grandchildren, he was their hero, a pillar of strength, and a best friend, who was always there in their time of need, and always present, sharing in their successes. To his loving
siblings he was a dependable brother, whom they could always count on.
 

Always giving God the glory and Jesus all the praise, Mr. Richardson’s profound legacy will forever be cherished as he has left an indelible mark in the many lives he’s touched.
 

Celebration of Life services will be held 12 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at the Julius S. Scott Sr. Chapel of Wiley University. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, at Union Missionary Baptist Church, 9157 U.S. Highway 59 S. Interment will be at Rosehill Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Black’s Funeral Home.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.