Harold Richardson

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, on January 10, 1950, Harold was the beloved son of the late Alexander P. Richardson and Harriette Richardson. He was raised in a close and loving family alongside his brothers Alexander, Jr., Michael, and Brian, and his sister, Norma Jean Harris.

Harold’s spiritual foundation was laid at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Portsmouth, VA, where he worshiped during his formative years. As an adult, he became a dedicated member of St. James United Methodist Church in Hampton, VA, where he served faithfully in many roles, including President of the United Methodist Men, Finance Chair, Lay Speaker, Liturgist, Confirmation Mentor, and Bible Study Leader. His faith guided every aspect of his life and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was a proud graduate of I.C. Norcom High School, Class of 1967. He continued his education at Norfolk State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, in 1977. That same year, he was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, a brotherhood committed to scholarship, leadership, and service.

Harold began his professional life as a police officer in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He later joined the United States Air Force, where he served honorably for 21 years as a Security Police Officer. After retiring from the military, he continued his public service as a Magistrate in Newport News, Virginia, and later worked as a defense contractor, contributing to national security efforts with integrity and dedication.

Harold was deeply active in community service. He served on the boards of Girls, Incorporated of the Greater Peninsula and the Wesley Community Service Center, Incorporated in Portsmouth, Virginia. He also devoted many Saturday mornings to tutoring students at Lindsay Middle School in Hampton, Virginia, believing deeply in the importance of education and mentorship.

A lover of words and a man of reflection, Harold wrote many heartfelt poems throughout his life—dedications to family, friends, and church members that captured his warmth, wisdom, and deep care for others.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Alice S. Richardson, Smithfield, Va.; their daughter, Rochelle E. Richardson (Stormy Anthony), Spotsylvania, Va.; their son, Harold “Richie” Richardson, Jr. (Stephanie Richardson), Carrollton, Va.; and their cherished grandson, Wyatt C. Richardson, Carrollton, Va. and a host of relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 18, 2025, at St. James United Methodist Church, 1533 W. Queen Street, Hampton, Virginia 23669.