Charles Ray Richardson

Charles graduated from Brownwood High School in 1954 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Howard Payne College (now University) in 1958. He furthered his education with master’s degrees from Hardin-Simmons University (1971) and East Texas State University (now Texas A&M Commerce) (1977), along with completing distance studies at Golden Gate Baptist Seminary, Master’s Graduate School of Divinity, and the Seminary External Education Division of the Southern Baptist Convention.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Charles served for two years in Korea and Japan where he worked on the staff of the military publication, The Bayonet, published at Pacific Stars and Stripes.

A long and accomplished career in journalism and public relations began during his college years at the Brown County Gazette and Brownwood Bulletin. His professional journey included roles as staff writer, religion editor, and Sunday/state editor for the Abilene Reporter-News; assistant editor at The Baptist Standard (Dallas, TX) and Biblical Recorder (Raleigh, NC); and press representative for the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Charles devoted more than 30 years to Hardin-Simmons University, serving as director of media relations until his retirement in 2005. In 2000, he authored True Servant Leader: James H. Landes.

Charles received numerous honors for his contributions to journalism and Christian ministry, including multiple news and PR awards, induction into the Texas Baptist Public Relations Hall of Fame, the Medal of Service from Howard Payne University, and the Bill and Janice Altom Service Award from Hardin-Simmons. He was recognized by Hardin-Simmons University as Staff Member of the Year and Former Staff Member of the Year.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church in Abilene, Charles served as a deacon and chairman of deacons. In retirement, he continued his ministry as a volunteer chaplain with Abilene Regional Medical Center and Hendrick Hospice.

In 2021, Charles and his loving wife, Karin (née Dean), relocated to Lubbock to be closer to family. He is survived by Karin, son Timothy Richardson (Carla) of Springtown, TX, daughter-in-law Maria Richardson of Knoxville, TN, and granddaughters Chanae Pitts Richardson (Chris) of Galveston, TX, and Christina Richardson of Knoxville, TN. He is also survived by his brother Warren Richardson (Ann) of Fredericksburg, TX, and many nieces and nephews who loved him. Charles was preceded in death by his parents and a son Zachary Richardson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Missions or Church Library funds at First Baptist Church, Abilene.

A visitation for Charles will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Highway 277 South, Abilene, TX 79606. Following the visitation will be a graveside service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Elmwood Memorial Park, 5750 US-277, Abilene, TX 79606.