Mr. Boyer Gary Richardson

Richardson, Boyer Gary “Butch,” 92, left this earthly world for eternal rest with his Lord surrounded by his devoted family on April 16, 2024 in Richmond, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, B. Gary Richardson and Muriel Madill Richardson of Roanoke, Virginia.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Sandra Mills Richardson, his daughter Karen Richardson Cooke and her husband James; daughter Kimberly Richardson; his three grandsons, Jameson Boyer Cooke (Jessie), Grayson Joseph Cooke (Blair), and Marshall Edward Cooke; and two great grandchildren, Frances and Rowan, who he adored.

Butch achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in his youth. He was a Staff Sargent and crew chief (USAF) during the Korean War who worked on B47 Bombers for the Strategic Air Command. He attended Meinzinger Art School in Detroit and graduated from Richmond Professional Institute (VCU) with a degree in fine arts. It was there he met his wife, Sandra. After graduation and marriage, Butch briefly taught art and began his career at The Everett Waddey Company, later known as Creative Office Environments, where he worked in interior office design and sales for over 40 years. After retiring, Butch and Sandy enjoyed traveling around the United States and throughout Europe. Butch’s passion was art, and he was known to have painted many scenes from his travels, but his favorite inspiration was the Shenandoah Valley of his youth.

Butch may have loved traveling and painting, but he was most intensely devoted to his family; especially his grand sons and great grandchildren. He relished the time he got to spend with them and guide them as they grew; imparting his wisdom and his deeply held faith. Butch was an active and respected member of Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church for over 60 years, repeatedly serving as deacon and elder and designing bulletin covers and banners to help convey the message of his genuine faith.
Butch appreciated open-wheel racing, photography, music, the arts, and people. His kind heart and generous spirit came through in his daily interactions with others. From the cashiers at the places he frequented, right up to the nursing staff who called him “Mr. Butch” as they cared for him in his final days, he rarely met a stranger. His quick wit and authentic smile made those around him feel at ease, appreciated, and seen.

There will be a graveside service at 2 pm on Tuesday, April 23rd at Evergreen Cemetery, Roanoke, Virginia, with a celebration of his long and full life at Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church in Richmond, Virginia at a later date. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church or the charity nearest to your heart.

He is already missed by many but especially by his family.