Wardell Nathaniel Richardson, Jr., 80, of Texarkana, TX., died at Wadley Regional Medical Center on July 25, 2024. He was born in Domino in 1944 to Wardell Sr. and Idellia Richardson. That was the beginning of his incredible life. Wardell attended Dunbar High School before studying physical education at Texarkana Junior College where he earned the titles Junior College All American and Most Valuable Player. From there, he graduated to East Texas State University @ Commerce where he became a local icon.

Shortly after his football career ended, he was drafted into the United States Army where he faithfully served in Vietnam and Desert Storm. After returning from Vietnam, he joined the National Guard and tried his luck at football once again playing semi pro football for the Texarkana Titans. However, prior to being drafted, the decision was made to make Ms. Kittye, the love of his life, his wife. They were joined together in holy matrimony on September 25,
1966, and remained married until he took his last breath almost 58 years later. Together, they loved three children: Tamar, Wardell III (Shane), and Candace.

Wardell will be remembered for many things: family mechanic, devout Christian, faithful deacon, youth Sunday School Superintendent, male chorus member, and many, many more. He loved and supported his pastor along with his entire church family. He enjoyed serving as the chairman of the brotherhood and was always one of the first to eat at their monthly men's breakfast. Managing the rental of the Family Life Center was most definitely something that kept
him busy. One thing for sure, every one knew who to call when they needed access to the building. He was always there.

Our family will miss his leadership for sure. He was always the spokesman, the disciplinarian, the snazzy dresser, the protector, the provider, and the comedian. If you didn't have a smile on your face before visiting with him, I guarantee you would have one before leaving. His presence was highly appreciated by all.

Although he loved his wife, children, and family - his grandchildren were the ones that had his heart. He did any and everything to make sure they had what they needed. After that, he made sure they had what they wanted. I can remember saying to him on many occasions, "Daddy, you are spoiling them." His reply was always the same, "SO!"

In closing, we will always carry your memory in our hearts. We thank you for the values, work ethic, good morals and unconditional love. Through us, your legacy will live on.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents; his parents, Wardell Sr. and Idellia Richardson; one brother, Lorenzo Richardson; and one sister, Shirley Lightsey.

Wardell leaves behind to carry his undying love in their hearts: Cora "Kittye" Richardson, wife and love of his life, Texarkana, Texas; daughter Tamar (Casey) Williams, Texarkana, Arkansas; son Wardell Richardson III Texarkana, Texas; and daughter Candace Richardson, Texarkana, Texas. Siblings: Rommie (Barbara) Richardson, Kansas City, Missouri; Odessa (Earl Sr.) Parks, Texarkana, Texas; Lavannah (Louie) George, Wake Village, Texas; James (Shirley) Richardson,
Texarkana, Texas; Lizzie Warren, Texarkana, Texas; Harold (Melba) Richardson, Lincoln, Nebraska. Grandchildren (5); Greatgrandchildren (4). And a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

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