In Passing: Steve Richardson: September 18, 1945 – November 3, 2019

Our beloved father, brother, husband, and friend stepped into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, November 3. He fought a mighty battle but succumbed to cancer within five months of his diagnosis with his children and two brothers by his side. As usual, his attitude was one of bravery and acceptance, stating he had no regret if God chose to take him sooner than later. He wore dapper hats, colorful shirts, and a radiant smile that everyone knew was a key element to his personality. Witty and humorous, he had his doctors, nurses, friends, and of course, his family, still enjoying the light and easy way he took on life and its journeys. There was not a day that went by where he didn’t make more than a few fortunate people around him laugh. He was unique and loved.

His greatest joys in life were his children and grandchildren. His commitment to them was to make sure their lives were first, in his heart. Whatever it took to be a good dad, he accomplished. Their happiness and success were his greatest satisfaction in life.

He had compassion for the homeless and had several he continuously helped, both physically, and financially. He served his church (Hope Community), as a volunteer at an orphanage in Africa and the Santa Barbara community he loved.

His parents preceded him in death, but he took many, many trips to sit by his adoring mom with jokes and hugs to make her days easier.

His two brothers and their offspring were a good portion of the glue that held the family tightly together. The family slogan he loved to share for family challenges was, “Here we go, another Richardson Production.”

His many jobs over the years paved the way for relationships with employees and co-workers that gave both a sense of belonging and respect. He was greeted with smiles and adoration throughout the decades. His last many, many years with Coldwell Banker in Montecito, highlighted his #1 career love… real estate sales. He was a testimony to hard work and determination and was admired and will be missed by his clients.

One of his best friends was his dog “Charlie.” He had never had his OWN dog and decided to have a buddy to take him to parts unknown and made several European trips with Charlie by his side. His “travels with Charlie,” as he would call them, were some of the greatest experiences in the last decade. He had stories to tell, and he would chuckle at the flashbacks.

Married to Verlinda for over 46 years, they shared a lifetime of memories, and even after their divorce, continued to stay in close communication as they persevered in making sure each other was doing well. He also loved his in-laws and sought to see them regularly.

He will be remembered for his humor, love, compassion, generosity, and commitments, and so many other attributes, but the best was how he could make a person feel important, valued, and loved.

He is survived by his daughter, Amber Richardson of Rancho Santa Fe, CA. Tyler Richardson of Manhattan, MT, Tyler’s Wife, Celeste and his cherished grandchildren, Kylie, Isaac, and Cyrus of Manhattan, MT. His brothers, Michael of Oceanside, CA, Robert of Vista, CA, and Verlinda Richardson of Carpinteria, CA… And many loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and brother and sister-in-laws. He was especially blessed by Verlinda’s sister, Paulette Bermant, for all she did to help in his last days.

As per his wishes, there will be no service.

Friends and relatives are asked to send their condolences, photos, thoughts, or memories to Amber and Tyler via PO Box 671, Carlsbad, California 92018. A Special Album is recording his life for future generations.

In lieu of flowers, Amber and Tyler have asked that a donation be made to the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission, 535 East Yanonali Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, in his honor.

^“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord is everlasting strength.” Isaiah 26:3-4 NKJV.