Billy Joe Richards

Billy Joe Richards, age 90, passed away on March 31, 2026, at his home. He was born January 27, 1936, to Jimmy L. Richards and Ora G. Mullins Richards. A devoted, hard-working, honest, loyal, and wise man, Billy Joe will be remembered for the steady way he loved his family and the quiet strength he carried through a long life. From this point forward, he will be lovingly remembered as Bill. He was a resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Bill was a graduate of Kirkman Technical High School.

A veteran of the United States Army, Bill carried his service with humility and pride. He joined Volunteer State Life Insurance in 1954 and worked in various capacities throughout his career until retirement. He also gave his time and leadership to The Volunteer Club, serving on the Board of Directors in 1965, 1967, and 1969, and faithfully fulfilling the role of treasurer in 1966. Bill was a member of The American Legion. He enjoyed fishing, building furniture, drawing, reading, working crossword puzzles, and spending time with family

In the moments that mattered most to him, Bill could often be found doing the things he loved: fishing, building furniture, drawing, reading, working crossword puzzles, and spending time with family. These simple joys reflected who he was—patient, thoughtful, and happiest when his hands or his mind were at work, or when the people he loved were close by.

Bill was a devoted husband and father. He loved spending time with his family and talking about times past with his brothers and sisters. He treasured being a grandfather and visiting with his grandchildren, and his love for them was plain to see in every conversation and every visit.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 69 years, Jean H. Richards; son, Chris Richards (Robin); daughter, Hope Richards Williams (Karl); brothers, Jim Richards II and Michael W. Richards (Kathy); sisters, Beverly J. Seidel and Sandra Richards Phillips (Mickey); granddaughter, Tylie Harris (Cody); Roger Williams (Whitley) and Patrick Williams (Caitlin); several nieces and nephews; as well as several great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Lesley E Richards and sister, Jeannie Richards Higgins

Visitation will be held at Chattanooga Funeral Home-East Chapel on April 8, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. and will be followed by a Graveside Service w/ Military Honors to be held at Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, on April 8, 2026, at 1:00 pm.

The family of Bill J. Richards would like to extend deepest gratitude to Bill’s nurses, Gabby & YaYa of Hearth Hospice, for the wonderful care given. Special thoughts and thanks go to Bill & Jean’s son, Chris Richards, for his dedication and devoted loving care to his father, for allowing him to pass away at home.

A farewell message from his daughter Hope: “You taught me the value of hard work by your example, but it was your tender hugs and soft words that showed me what love really means. I miss you, Dad.”

Please share your thoughts of Bill online at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel has been entrusted with his arrangements.