08/21/2025
James Richardson
James “Jim” Richardson — affectionately known as “Papa,” “Dad,” and “Pop” — passed away after a long, courageous, and fiercely fought battle with cancer. He faced every challenge with grit and grace, never losing his sense of humor or his deep love for those around him.
Born on December 31, 1937, at home in rural Ludlow, Illinois, Jim was the youngest son of Alton Francis and Mabel (Ostrom) Richardson. He grew up surrounded by the values that would shape his life: faith, hard work, and family. After graduating from Paxton High School in 1956, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving 16 months in artillery observation in South Korea.. He returned to the states in 1958, carrying with him a quiet pride in his service and a lifelong respect for those who serve.
Jim’s career in housing construction began shortly after his military service and blossomed into a partnership when he co-founded Medler and Richardson Builders (M&R Builders) in 1972. Jim built countless homes throughout his career, each crafted with skill and care, but perhaps his greatest professional achievement was the one closest to his heart—building the family home. It is within those walls that all of his children were lovingly raised, and later, his grandchildren arrived turning everyday moments into cherished memories. If only those walls could talk. Jim was a positive mentor and role model in his community, generously offering job opportunities to many local youth. Through his guidance and encouragement, he helped shape strong work ethics and opened doors for young people— leaving a legacy not only in the homes he built, but in the lives he touched. He retired in 1999, but his hands never stopped building — he continued working as a contract operating engineer for many years, always eager to lend his skills and wisdom.
In 1961, Jim married the love of his life, Gertie Buck, in Penfield, IL. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, faith, and unwavering devotion. Their nearly 64 years of marriage were a testament to enduring love and partnership.
Jim and Gertie were loving parents of seven children — Michael and Charles (both deceased), Beth Marchetti of Forest Park, IL, Frank (Laura) of Streamwood, IL, Tom (Kathy) of Lancaster, PA, Cindy Lattimer (Jeff) of Naperville, IL, and Teresa Bunders (Eric) of Madison, WI — and were blessed with 11 grandchildren who lit up Jim’s world: Abigail, Jacob, and Joshua Marchetti; Sarah and Nicholas Richardson; Quinn and Andrew Richardson; Logan and Megan Lattimer; Claire and Grant Bunders.
Jim was a man of deep faith and community. He was a longtime member of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Thomasboro, serving many years as a member and leader of the Holy Name Society, and was a proud 4th Degree Knight of Columbus in Rantoul and member of the American Legion VFW. He found joy in simple pleasures — restoring antique cars with the Prairie A’s club, swapping stories at the “table of knowledge,” and strumming his guitar late into the night.
Jim had a gift for connection. He could walk into a room and instantly know everyone — or just as easily make new friends. Whether chatting with wait staff at a favorite diner, joking with grocery store clerks, or striking up conversations with complete strangers, Jim’s ornery, friendly nature left a lasting impression. He had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and often,laughed with. If you were lucky enough to be in his presence, chances are you walked away with a smile — and maybe a story to tell.
Though never formally trained, Jim taught himself to play guitar and became a gifted musician, especially fond of country and western music. He played in local bands at weddings, festivals, and community events, always bringing joy to those around him. His love of music was contagious, spreading to his children and grandchildren, who will forever remember Papa with a guitar in hand and that unmistakable “Johnny Cash” voice. Family gatherings often turned into impromptu jam sessions, with his children joining in as the Richardson Family Singers — a playful nod to the Von Trapps, but with more twang and laughter. Music was Jim’s love language, and he shared it generously, even in his final weeks.
On top of his love of music, Jim was a lifelong sports enthusiast, with a special place in his heart for the Chicago Cubs. Whether watching a game from his favorite chair in the living room or checking scores on the go, he remained a devoted fan. Though vacations were rare—Jim was often too busy running his business—he always made time for a day trip to Chicago to see the Cubs play, packing up the kids in the station wagon with mom’s fried chicken tucked away in a shoe box—a simple tradition that became a treasured memory.
Jim is survived by his brother Vince Richardson and sister Pat Rydell (Jerry), and preceded in death by three brothers — John, Robert, and Donald — and five sisters — Frances, Kathleen, Margaret, Barbara, and Rita, who passed in infancy.
Above all, Jim was a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and gave generously. His legacy is etched in the hearts of his family, the homes he built, the songs he played, and the stories he told. He leaves behind a life well-lived and a family forever grateful for his love.
Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel at 1551 E. Grove Ave. in Rantoul, IL. from 4:00-7:00 pm on Sunday, August 24, 2025.
Funeral Mass will be held at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church 100 S. Church St. in Thomasboro, IL. at 11:00 am on Monday, August 25. Burial to follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery in Penfield.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please prayerfully consider donating to their grandson with special needs, Joshua Marchetti. Donations should be directed to Joshua C Marchetti Supplemental Trust.
Please join Jim’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, Illinois 61878.
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