Born November 26, 1933 in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Catharine T. Richardson and John AW Richardson II; John was raised in Douglaston, NY. A graduate of Northeastern University, John applied his degree in Industrial Technology as a Computer Sales Engineer for long and successful career.
A loving father devoted to his family; John Sr’s calling to firefighting service started as a young boy and continued throughout his lifetime. He was an extremely active member of the Fredon community. John previously served as Chief and President of the Fredon Volunteer Fire Company where he and Ginny were instrumental in forming the rescue squad. John’s passion for public service led him to serve as a township committee member who rarely missed a meeting. Over the 30 years in elected office, he served as Mayor of Fredon Township for six terms and was the Director of Emergency Management.
In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his sisters Elizabeth R. Mansfield and Patricia M. Watson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Virginia "Ginny" D. Richardson; his children, Anne-Elizabeth Milliken (Jeffrey), John A.W. Richardson IV, Melissa Richardson McNally (Mike), and William R. Richardson (Nicole); his grandchildren, Christopher Milliken (Victoria), Jennifer Milliken, Alex Milliken, Patrick Milliken, Aden Lessiak (Riley), Emma Richardson, Sophia Richardson, and William Richardson; his great-grandchildren Cecilia Milliken and Charles Milliken; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A visitation for John will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, Sunday, January 30 at the Fredon Civic Center, 436 Route 94, Fredon, NJ 07860. Firefighter Memorial Services immediately to follow at 4:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Monday, January 31, at Yellow Frame Church, 1 Yellow Frame Rd, Fredon, NJ 07860. Interment will follow in Yellow Frame Cemetery, following the service.
The Richardson family would like to express their gratitude for the tremendous support offered from friends and the community during his final months. Memorial donations may be made in John’s memory to the Fredon Volunteer Fire Company, 443 Rt 94, Fredon, NJ 07860, https://fredon-volunteer-fire-company-inc.square.site/.
Online condolences may be offered at www.smithmccrackenfuneralhome.com.
