James "Jim" Monroe Richardson

James “Jim” Monroe Richardson, 78, of Taylorsville, passed away at his residence on Saturday, August 27, 2016. Born in Wilkes county to the late Boyden Howard and Nellie Harris Richardson, Jim was a member of St. John Baptist Church, where he served as a parking attendant and greeter as well as a member of the Male Choir. He was employed at Century Furniture of Hickory, as well as Schneider Mills, Holly Farms and the Alexander Rail Road. He was a 32 Degree Mason and member of the Stone Pillar Lodge. He enjoyed practicing Martial Arts and was well known for his love for people.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Boyden Daniel Richardson.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Martha Rowe Richardson of the home. Two daughters will cherish his memory: Pandora Richardson, of Wilkesboro and Constance Hope Mizell and husband John of the home. One son survives, James “Chris” Richardson of the home. Jim has five grandchildren: Sheree McWhother of Wilkesboro, Missty McWhorter Chattmon, and husband Craig, of Duncan, Okla., Mark McWhorter Jr. of Wilkesboro, John Jesse and Joseph Monroe Mizell, both of the home. He has 16 great grandchildren. One sister in law survives, Jean Flowers and husband Robert. One nephew who was like a son, Daniel Richardson and wife Melissa of North Wilkesboro, and three nieces who were like daughters, Kathy Graham of North Wilkesboro, Glenda T. Bowers and husband Tony of Lenoir, and Joyce Captain and husband, Kenneth of Grove, Texas. There are a host of additional nieces and nephews. Jim has two friends who were like brothers, Jimmy Dowell and wife, Shirley of Columbus, Ohio and Joseph Whittington and wife Kathlene of Roaring River. There is a lifelong best friend Rev. Roosevelt Carlton, of Moravian Falls.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 1, 2016 from 6-8:00 p.m. at Alexander Funeral Service and funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 2, 2016 at St. John Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. T.E. Martin will officiate. The body will lie in state for one hour prior to the service.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Alexander County, 52 Lucy Echerd Lane, Taylorville, NC, 28681 or Fresebuius Medical Care Dialysis, 175 Commerce Dr. Taylorsville, NC, 28681.