Richard O. Richardson, 67, of Oreana, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, with his family by his side after a courageous 17-year battle with cancer.

Richard was born on June 1, 1958, in Decatur, Illinois to parents Karol Dean Richardson and Jane L. (Petro) Richardson.

On June 8, 1981, Richard married the love of his life, Angela Jo Beesley. Together they shared nearly 45 wonderful years of marriage filled with faith, family, and unconditional love.

Richard dedicated many years of service to his community through his work. He spent 28 years working in Safety and Security at Wagner Casting and later retired from Tate & Lyle after 10 years of service. He was respected for his strong work ethic, integrity, and no-nonsense approach to life. Richard set the bar high for those around him and led by example in both word and action.

He was a devoted husband, father, Papa, and faithful follower of Jesus Christ whose strength, love, and unwavering character left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Above all else, Richard cherished his family. He was so proud of his wife, kids, and grandkids. He loved spending time with those he loved most and enjoyed riding his motorcycle whenever he could. His faith in God was the foundation of his life, and he carried a deep love for Jesus and a servant’s heart throughout his journey.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Angela Jo Richardson; daughters, Abigail Richardson and Niki (Rachel) Warnick and spouse (Michael Warnick); grandchildren, Blake Dulgar “Papa’s Boy,” Mylee Richardson “Papa’s Princess,” Buckley Dickerson “Papa’s Little Buddy,” and Lukas Warnick “Papa’s Mini Niki Knucklehead.”

He was preceded in death by his father, Karol Dean Richardson; his mother, Jane L. Petro; as well as his sister, Brenda Richardson, and brother, Mike Richardson, who no doubt welcomed him into Heaven with open arms.

To know Richard was to love him. His strength, wisdom, and steadfast love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Though our hearts are heavy, we find peace knowing he took one last ride home with Jesus.

And while his family will miss him deeply, his loyal sidekick, Hay-Hay, is going to miss him like crazy.

A Celebration of Life for Richard will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Harvest Christian Center, located at 2199 N. Water Street, Decatur, Illinois. Visitation will start at 9:00 am and Service starts at 11:00 am.

A private burial will take place in the weeks to follow.