William A Richards Jr.

Many things can be said about William A. Richards, Jr. (Bill) Known to friends and acquaintances as a friendly, energetic, empathic and decisive man, his compassionate nature would always shine through, revealing his charm, warmth and conscientious demeanor. He was warmhearted, gentle and organized in all the things he sought to accomplish. Bill was a mentor, a natural “teacher” capable of seeing things clearly, leading others and bringing out the best in all of those around him. He generally had a focus on harmony and peace.

When he was young, Bill's friends and family found that “straightforward” and “honest” were perfect words to describe him. Even as a child, Bill demonstrated strong qualities of self-confidence, perceptive ability and a disposition that was enjoyable to those around him.

Bill grew up with one sibling,brother, Mark Richards. Bill was constantly involved in all sorts of activities with his family. He was even-tempered, taking care not to get involved in too many family conflicts. This quality served him well, in perpetually bringing harmony, understanding and a sense of peace to the family. Bill carried these traits into his adult life and served as one of many reasons why family and friends found him pleasurable and delightful to be around. Bill was a person who genuinely understood and cared for others, making powerful connections with those he knew.

On August 7, 1954 Bill married Joan Mehler. Compassionate and devoted, Bill worked hard to make his new family happy. He was always generous with his time and this meant that Joan came first in Bill's book. He was always caring and made certain that he considered Joan’s feelings. By trusting his emotions, Bill did his best to make sure that both the marriage and home life ran smoothly. This is just one more example that showed that Bill was truly an empathetic person.

Bill's quality of being a caring and tolerant person who was very accepting of others translated to being a good father to his children. Bill shared these values with his three children, Cynthia L. Dean, William (Chip) Richards III, and Holly R. Jarrell. Bill was also blessed with six grandchildren, Erin L. Dean, Heather C. Dean, William (Billy) Richards, IV, Sara E. Jarrell, Emily A. Jarrell and William (Will) P. Jarrell. Bill related well to children of all ages and was able to connect to them on their level. The children always loved him and he was completely and totally devoted to them.

Bill was a Navy veteran of World War II. His fellow sailors knew him as being very resourceful and kind. William demonstrated personal initiative and valued these same principles in those with whom he served.

Throughout his life, Bill was actively involved in professional and community organizations. With a talent for focusing in on exactly what was required to be completed, Bill was known to his peers as being able to strengthen any group endeavor. When called on, Bill was a natural leader who created harmony and good relationships within the group, often putting his own needs aside. Bill's involvement could easily help structure and organize any part of an organization. An added benefit was Bill's ability to bring valued principles along with him. Bill was an active member of many organizations, such as, 32nd* Mason, Lawrence Lodge of Erie, PA,, Zem Zem Temple of Erie, PA, and Mahi Temple of Miami, Fl. He was also a member of the "Roadrunners" transportation crew through the Shrine where he transported local burn victims to the Shrine Burn Hospital in Tampa, Florida.

Bill's faith was important to him. He was a long time member of St. Benedict's Episcopal Church in Plantation, Florida. He was compassionate and warm hearted, someone who truly cared for others and that was clearly demonstrated in his devotion to the congregation.

Bill entered into rest on May 25, 2012 in Pembroke Pines, FL. He is survived by his wife M.Joan Richards, children, Cynthia (spouse Michael Dean (predeceased), Chip ( spouse Nancy S. Richards), and Holly (spouse, Powell Jarrell) six grandchildren and brother, Mark J. Richards

Throughout his life, Bill was a gregarious and enthusiastic man. He had a wonderful sense of humor and often a twinkle in his eye. He was generous in sharing his personal attributes, giving and helping those he knew and loved. He always brought out the best in everyone. He was imaginative and tender hearted. He had a passionate love for music. He was easy to get along with and everyone who met him loved him. Bill leaves behind a legacy of life-long friendships and cherished memories. Everyone whose lives he touched will dearly remember William ( Bill) A. Richards, Jr.