James Oscar Richards, 67, of Belleville, IL, born April 14, 1957, in Niagara Falls, NY, died Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, with family by his side.
Jim was a teamster who worked as a chemical operator at Kemira. He retired after 40 years of service. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal baseball and Blues hockey fan, and he loved NASCAR. “Papa Jim” adored his grandchildren and was the special bearer of all treats, snacks, and junk food. His delicious recipe of “Papa Noodles” was such a hit. Jim was a master of the grill and loved to barbecue. He will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar S. and Norma Jean, nee Rosa, Richards; and his father-in-law, Richard J. Wegner.
Surviving are his loving wife of 46 years, Laurie, nee Wegner, Richards, whom he married May 6, 1978; two daughters, Tiffany (Brandon) Riesenberger and Lauren Richards; two grandchildren, Elijah and Ella Riesenberger; four brothers, Patrick (Mary Ellen) Richards, Michael (Cindy) Richards, Paul (Michelle) Richards, and Brian (Nancy) Richards; a sister, Mary Beth Richards; his mother-in-law, Patricia J. Wegner; many nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; many friends; his special buddy, Rocky; and his granddogs, Harlowe, Maxwell, and Elvis.
Memorials may be made to the Belleville Area Humane Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, October 4, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Cari Frus officiating.
According to Jim’s wishes, cremation services were held.
