Thomas Avery Richardson

Thomas Avery Richardson, 74, died Saturday, October 9, 2021 at Riverside Methodist Hospital after three months of failing health.



He was born in Bucyrus on August 25, 1947 to the late Myron A. Richardson and Ellen (Winegardner) Willetts Richardson. He attended Holmes-Liberty Schools and graduated from Wynford High School in 1965. He served in the Army in Vietnam from 1966-68. After his return, he married Carolyn L. Ross on June 24, 1972 and took joy in aggravating her daily. Tom retired from The Timken Co. in 1999 after 30 years and 6 months.



Tom was the guy who took care of everybody. His hard work and sacrifice when his family was young turned into his being able to be very generous later in life. He had a special bond with his sons and the untimely death of Micah in 1999 took an emotional toll on him. His spark returned somewhat when he was able to retire and pour himself into the care of his grandchildren, extended family, and weekly visits with friends.



He loved to socialize, a simple meal at a local diner or a trip to the bank was never complete without a lengthy visit and updates on his tomatoes or his beloved grandchildren. Tom was a member of Moose Lodge 669, AmVets Post 777, American Legion Post 225, VFW Post 1078, DAV Post 100, and the Scioto United Methodist Church.



Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carolyn Richardson; son, Solomon (Heather) Richardson; grandchildren, Jacob, Caleb, and Holly Emma Richardson; two great grandchildren, Micah and Avery; along with extended family and many close friends.



In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by son, Micah Avery Richardson and brother, Ronald Willetts.



Tom’s family will receive friends on Thursday, October 14 from 4-7 pm at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus where his funeral will be held on Friday at 10:30 am with his son, Rev. Solomon Richardson, officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by the US Army Honor Guard and Bucyrus Veterans Military Funeral Detail.



Memorial donations can be made payable to Disabled American Veterans or Scioto UMC and given at the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on Tom’s tribute wall.