Joseph Donald Richards of Gautier passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at his home. He was born October 6, 1934 in Camden, NJ. He is preceded in death by his father, Francis Upton Richards; first wife, Hily Virginia; son, Christopher Dean Richards; sister, Carole Albright; and granddaughter, Kelly Richards.
Mr. Richards is survived by his wife, Candice (Thackwell) Richards; daughter Beth Elaine Richards; mother, Margaret Mitchalk Marshall Richards; sister, Virginia Watkins; nephew Paul J. Watkins; grandchildren, Elora Wilson, Christopher Wilson, Joshua Richards, and Melissa Richards; step-children, Angel Michelle (Kevin) Finn, Frank Christopher (Jennifer) Turner, Robert Scott Turner; and step-grandchildren, Bethany Michelle Lishman, Abigail Jeanne Finn, Lauren Sally Finn, Christopher Elliot Turner, and Angelina Turner.
He was a member of the American Legion of Gautier Post # 1992, a loving and caring man with a great sense of humor, loved to read, and had the best memory. Joseph retired from the United States Air Force, the National Guard, and A.O. Smith in Tennessee. He will be missed.
Arrangements by Holder-Wells Funeral Home of Moss Point, MS.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society of Mobile, AL. Please send donations to 900 Western America Drive Mobile, AL 36609 or call (251) 344-9856.
Memorial Service will be held Sunday, July 20, 2014 at 3:00 pm at Gautier City Park, with Chaplain Jan Lofties officiating. Weather Permitting.