Obituary of Clarence Edward Richardson

Clarence E. (Rich) Richardson, 92, of Roanoke died Monday, October 3, 2016 at the home of James and Sharon Mundy where he was residing. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Lois Irene Stanley Richardson, his parents, Angie and Claudia Smith Richardson, and his sister, Louise Hudson.Clarence was born in Roanoke and graduated from Jefferson High School with the class of 1942. He remained a lifelong resident of Roanoke. In his younger years he worked for the N & W Railroad as a dining room steward. He served in the U.S. Air Force as a decorated Aircraft Armorer in the Air Offensive of Japan in World War II. After serving our country Clarence founded the family business, Richardson Mechanical Contractors, with his brother Paul Richardson. He served as a Master Plumber and taught Plumbing school in Roanoke, Va. He was a active member and past Commander of the Salem American Legion Post # 3 and also was a member of Riverland Road Baptist Church.Clarence was a joyful, sociable, humorous, amusing, loving, devoted and kind hearted man who never met a stranger. He enjoyed spending time at his property on Smith Mountain Lake with his wife and family, and enjoyed N & W Railroad history. He always enjoyed time with family and friends.The past year Clarence enjoyed living with Jimmy and Sharon Mundy in southwest Roanoke where he received exceptional care and undivided attention. A special thanks goes out to them and their staff. They cared for and loved Clarence to the end. Also deserving of a special thanks are Clarence's close friends, Lois Atkins, Nancy Hartley and the late Betty Holland.Surviving are his sisters, Evelyn Wygal and Gladys Gibson; brothers, Paul Richardson and wife Eleanor, and Nelson Richardson; sister-in-law, Thelma Creedle, two cousins, six nieces, eight nephews their children and many friendsIn lieu of flowers please make a donation to a church of your choice.Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. Thursday, October 6, 2016 at Simpson Funeral Home 5160 Peters Creek Road by the Rev. Harry Hudson, the Rev. Scott Hudson and the Rev. Donald Summerville. Interment will follow in Evergreen Burial Park. The family will receive friends from 5 -7 p.m. Wednesday at Simpson Funeral Home. 366-0707