Robert Cowles Richardson Sr.

Robert Cowles Richardson Sr. peacefully entered the Lord's embrace on November 20, 2023. Born on January 25, 1929, in James City County, VA, he was a lifelong resident and business owner. As the owner/operator of J. N. Richardson & Sons Inc. Sawmill and Lumber Company. J. N. Richardson Sr. purchased the property, which contributed to the founding of the business on Greenspring/Centerville Rd. in 1946 and established the mill permanently in 1960. Notably, it stood as the last functioning sawmill in Williamsburg, VA. Robert figuratively and literally broke his back for the family business. His unwavering commitment manifested in monumental, dedicated efforts, showcasing his perseverance, loyalty, and resilience for the well-being of his entire family. A trailblazer in his youth, Robert became "the first local boy" signed by the MLB straight out of high school. His journey led to a class D contract with the New York Yankees in 1949, following graduation from Mathew Whaley High School in Williamsburg, VA, with Letters in Baseball, Football, Basketball, and Track. Amidst his accomplishments, Robert served in the Korean War, stationed in Germany. He played baseball for the United States Army Baseball Team, known as The Rangers, notably showcasing his skills at Soldiers Field. On March 19, 1953, three months after his return from service, he married his sweetheart, Mary Kelley. Robert was a loving, compassionate, honest, loyal, and dedicated family man, consistently prioritizing God and his family. In addition to his professional and athletic pursuits, Robert was an avid fisherman, hunter, Top Lot trapper, furrier, and had a profound passion for gardening. His diverse talents and warm spirit will undoubtedly be missed. Robert was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Oma Kelley Richardson; two sons, Rodney and Eric Richardson; his parents, John Newman Richardson Sr. and Beatrice Warburton Richardson; all five of his brothers, John N. Jr., Clarence, T. Earl, James, Willie, Langdon; as well as his one and only “Sis” Madeline Hogge. Left to cherish his beautiful memories are his son, Robert C. Richardson Jr.; his daughter, Kelly R. Deskins; a daughter by choice, Dolores D. Richardson; grandsons, Eric V. Jr., Cowles, and Nicholas; granddaughters, Olivia, Alexandria, and Melissa; great grandchildren, John D., Heidi, Dylan, Harley, Lyric, Eric K., Jasmine, Haley, Colon, McKenzie, Angelina and Riley; great- great grandchildren, Anthony, Bryanna, John A., Baylee, Alex, Andrew, George, and River. A graveside service will be held 2:30pm Thursday, November 30, 2023, at Williamsburg Memorial Park Cemetery, Williamsburg, VA.

Robert Cowles Richardson Sr.

January 25, 1929 - November 20, 2023