Roger Owen Richardson
Published 4:25 pm Friday, March 8, 2024
Roger Owen Richardson, 91, loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at his residence in Newport News. He was born in Staunton on May 27, 1932, to the late Samuel Tine and Lucy Mable Jordan Richardson. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps and Air Force, Roger served his country with honor and dedication during the Korean War. Following his service in the military, Roger returned to Staunton where he met and married the love of his life – Martha Ann (Byers). In 1961, Roger and Martha moved to Newport News, VA. Together for 48 years, they raised four children, shared their love of gospel and bluegrass music, square dancing, and watching their children play basketball and other extra-curricular activities. Roger’s professional career was in bakery management, sales, and distribution, which led to owning and operating his own business. Beyond his career, Roger was a man of many passions. He adored his cat, Sadie. He was an active member of his coffee club, where he shared countless hours of camaraderie with close friends. Roger also enjoyed staying active at the gym, playing cards with his family, and listening to local bluegrass bands. He looked forward to going on the annual family vacation for the last 20 years. His enthusiasm for college basketball games, trains, and WWII history showcased his diverse interests. Roger was dedicated to his family, had a very strong work ethic, was optimistic about life, made friends easily, reached out to others in need, and had a strong faith in God. He is survived by his daughters, Susan Amber Richardson (Lynne), Rebecca Ann Richardson Stewart (Jim-deceased), and Crystal Dawn Richardson (Bryan); his son, Patrick Neal Richardson (Cindy); his grandchildren, Leeann Richardson, Maryann Richardson, Lindsay Shelton, Joshua Berntsen, and Haley Bryant; and his great-granddaughter, Olivia Shelton. In addition to his parents and his loving wife, Martha Ann, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Cecil Tine, Charles Edwin, and Samuel Hunter Richardson and his sisters, Lois Mildred Richardson Shue and Chloia Lucille Richardson Barker. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Visitation and funeral service will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton, VA. Visitation will be held from 2:00-3:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at 3:00pm in the Chapel followed by interment at Thornrose Cemetery. The Reverend Russell Heinrich will be officiating. Roger’s Celebration of Life will take place at 6:00 PM on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Liberty Baptist Church in Hampton, VA. Arrangements are being handled by Henry Funeral Home. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.henryfuneralhome.net