William Richardson

William Edward Richardson, 73 of Chatom, died March 30, 2024. William was born November 16, 1950 and was a member of Chatom Church of God. He was affectionately known as "Curly" in his younger years and as "Wild Bill" or simply "Bill" by his coworkers and friends. He was proud to have served in the United States Army as a paratrooper; he had the distinctions of being the last draftee from Washington County for the Vietnam War as well as one of the last members of the 173rd Airborne before its deactivation in 1972. Bill was a hardworking man who never cared for retirement although he did enjoy watching westerns and sci-fi movies to pass the time. He was a fan of old school rock, most especially Creedence Clearwater Revival; his family has many special memories of Bill tied to CCR's music. Bill loved family gatherings and spending time with loved ones. He gave the best hugs which always came from the heart and filled the recipient with warmth and comfort.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Linda Gail Richardson; children, William Christopher (Mike) Richardson, Edward Cecil-Wesley (Tammy) Richardson, Belinda Charmagne Richardson Williams, Joshua Brian (Lydia) Richardson, and Kaylee Maran (Ben) Newborn; daughter-in-law, Penny Richardson; siblings, Paula Kay Cooper and Rose Marie Ann McLain (Kevin); as well as a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, other relatives and so many dear friends he could never count them.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arnett Wesley and Delores Ann Richardson; siblings, John Wayne Richardson, Hubert Eugene Richardson, and Arnett Wesley Richardson Jr.; and son, Matthew Caleb Richardson.

Services will be held Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Chatom Church of God. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 11:00 a.m. with Bro. John Brown and Sis. Naomi Brown officiating. Interment will follow in Chatom Church of God Cemetery.