Johnnie Richards, age 63 of Ellery, Illinois passed away Monday afternoon, January 4, 2021 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. He was born in Fairfield on December 18, 1957 to Leslie and Delores “Dee” (Bullock) Richards. Leslie passed away when John was very young and he was blessed with a wonderful step father in Jim Vaughan. John was first married to Rhonda Baker in 1985 and together they raised their son, Cody until she passed in 1999. John married Vivian Dianne Rigg in February of 2000 and they enjoyed twelve years together before her passing on December 3, 2012. John had worked for Champion Labs in Albion for 45 years and thoroughly loved to spend time outdoors.
Left to cherish many wonderful memories are sons, Cody (Marci) Richards of Albion, Keith (Mandy) Willett of Albion, Lucas Vaughn of Fairfield; daughters, Joey (Tad) Ash of Ewing, Illinois, Christina Simpson of Fairfield and Stephanie Reed of Mt. Carmel; two brothers, Charles (Iva) Richards of Albion and Leslie (Martha) Richards of Mt. Carmel; 19 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Preceding John in death were his wives, Rhonda and Dianne, and his parents.
Graveside services for John Richards will be held at 11:00am, Friday January 8th, 2021 at Pleasant Grove Cemetery south of Fairfield. Please remember the CDC guidelines of social distancing and the wearing of masks. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.nalesfuneralhome.com. Nale’s Funeral Home of Albion, is assisting the family.