James E. Richards

James (“Jim”) Edward Richards was born October 9, 1950, in the Little Company of Mary Hospital in Oak Lawn, Illinois. He was the third of seven children born to the late Robert W. and Mary E. (Kearns) Richards. He absorbed the importance of family early from his parents and extended relatives, ever strengthening those connections throughout his life. Jim grew up in Oak Lawn, graduating from Richards High School in 1968. He went to work, married, and had his beloved daughter, Tracy. Over 26 years, he worked his way up the ladder at Regal Tube Company to Plant Manager, where he met his much-loved second wife, Karen Richards (nee Wolf), who gave him two more children, Thomas and Brian. He was exceedingly proud and devoted to all his children, spending his free time volunteering with their youth ministry and sports programs. Jim was extraordinarily handy and quick to lend a hand when any was needed. He fixed houses and cars, his own and for others. He welcomed everyone to his home, always making sure they were fed and comfortable and fed some more and then told some Dad jokes. A music lover, he played guitar and sang, sharing his delight in sixties rock to his children. When his work took him and his family to Birmingham, Alabama, and then Germantown, Tennessee, he did not lose touch with his family and friends from work and home. He is remembered fondly by his dearest friends. He was the proud and devoted father of Tracy (Mark) Zahora; Thomas (Mistina) Richards, and Brian Richards; and cherished grandfather of Payton. He is fondly remembered by his siblings Maureen (the late Donald) Christopher, Kathleen (Ronald) Breier, Peggy (fiance Tim O’Brien) Richards, Renee (James) Breese, Carol (Michael) Presbitero, the late Michael (Sandy) Richards, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jim passed away at home in Germantown, Tennessee at age 71.

Please join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Jim Richards. Resting at Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home, 5570 W 95th St. in Oak Lawn, Illinois, where Visitation will take place Tuesday, June 14 from 2 PM to 8 PM.

A memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, June 15 at 10 AM, also at Thompson & Kuenster.

Interment Fairmount Willow Hills Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to support the Germantown United Methodist Youth Missions, 2331 South Germantown Road, Germantown, TN 38138,

https://www.shelbygiving.com/app/giving/germantownumc