Life's Journey of Deacon John L. Richardson

Deacon John L. Richardson was born on April 28, 1937, to the late Bruce and Ocie Richardson of Locust Bayou, Arkansas. He took his final breath on May 6, 2023, at JRMC in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Deacon Richardson was a laborer at Lockheed Martin until his retirement in 1994. After retirement, he began working as a driver for the Sr. Citizen Meals Program of Calhoun County, which he continued until his health no longer allowed. Deacon Richardson was a very hard-working man. When he was not at his place of employment, John found pleasure with being outdoors. He enjoyed activities that involved using his hands, building structures, hunting, planting gardens, and simply being out in his yard. Deacon Richardson passed a diligent work ethic on to his children and grandchildren that has allowed them to be successful in their lives.

When he was not involved in those pastimes, you may have found him singing in the choir at Pilgrim Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he was an active member. He was appointed to be a deacon under the leadership of the late Rev. Feaster Rideout. He continued to serve many years as pastor's right-hand man under the current leadership of his beloved friend, Elder Joe Burns. His favorite songs were "Walking in the Light" and "Shine on Me."

Deacon Richardson was proceeded in death by the following siblings: Earnest Richardson, Charles Richardson, Grover Richardson, Bobby Richardson, Tyrone Richardson, Martha Lankford, Mary Pickett, and Betty Richardson. Deacon Richardson was predeceased by his first wife of forty-seven years, Bearnestine Richardson.

Deacon Richardson is survived by his wife of eighteen years, Catherine Richardson. He also leaves to cherish his memories three daughters: Pamela Finley (Aristeve) of Dayton, OH, Na'Keysha Price of Pine Bluff, AR, and La'Toya Sims of Grand Prairie, TX. Deacon Richardson is survived by his brother, Curtis Richardson (Doris) of Englewood, CA , and his sister, Carolyn Thompson of Little Rock, AR. Deacon Richardson loved his grandchildren and gave each of them a special nickname: Bubba (DJ Richardson), Red (Ta'Lisha Elliott), Ms. P. (Madyson Warrior), and Grandson (Adam Price). Other survivors include his favorite aunt, Mable Lankford, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.