Sammy Gene Richardson lived a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work-values that shaped not only who he was, but the legacy he leaves behind.

Born on March 21, 1944, in Clarkton, Missouri, to the late Helen Hale Richardson and Sam Richardson, Jr., Sammy grew up in a close-knit community where character was built through long days and simple joys.

Those early years laid the foundation for a life defined by dedication, resilience, and a deep love for the people around him.

Sammy spent much of his life working as a farmer, a calling that reflected his steady nature and strong work ethic. He later became the owner of Sam's Trucking, continuing his commitment to providing for his family through honest, hard work.

Whether in the fields or on the road, Sammy took pride in what he did and did it well.

On October 12, 1963, he married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Roberts, in Clarkton, Missouri. Together, they built a life filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership. Though Shirley preceded him in death on November 14, 2024, their love story remains one of the most cherished chapters of his life.

A man of strong faith, Sammy was a longtime member of Lynn Oak Church in Clarkton, where he faithfully served as a trustee for many years. His commitment to his church was a reflection of his belief in serving others and living a life grounded in purpose.

Sammy was a family man through and through. He was preceded in death by his son, Kenny Richardson; his twin sister, June Boone; his brother, Jimmy Richardson; and his nephew, Brian Richardson. While their loss was deeply felt, Sammy carried their memories with him always.

He leaves behind a large and loving family who will carry on his legacy. His daughters, Lisa Wilson (Kenny) of Kennett, Missouri;

Pam Richardson of Clarkton, Missouri; and Beth Sessions (Kyle) of Fairfield, Illinois, will forever cherish the lessons and love he gave them. His grandchildren-Samantha Sparks (Jesse), Matt Wilson (Holly), Joe Wilson (Mady), Kaitlyn Sessions, Brooklyn

Sessions-whom he shared a birthday with, Annabeth Sessions, and bonus grandson Elijah King (Jessie)—brought him great pride and joy. His great-grandchildren, Braden Wilson, Charlie Sparks, Lillie Jo Wilson, Willow June Sparks, Wesley Wilson, and bonus great-grandchildren Ellie Jane King and Annie Blayke King, were a special blessing in his later years.

He is also survived by his sister, Betty Ladymon, and his brothers, Danny Richardson, Jerry Richardson, and Terry Richardson, along with many extended family members and friends who were touched by his life.

Sammy passed away on May 2, 2026, at his home in Clarkton at the age of 82. Though he is no longer with us, the imprint of his life-his kindness, his strength, and his unwavering love for his family-will remain for generations to come.

His story is one of quiet faithfulness, enduring love, and a life well lived.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at Lynn Oak General Baptist Church in Clarkton. Funeral services will be held at Lynn Oak General Baptist Church in Clarkton at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 with Reverend Charles Richardson officiating. Interment will follow at Lynn Oak Cemetery in Clarkton.

Serving as pallbearers will be: Matthew Wilson, Joseph Wilson, Jesse Sparks, Braden Wilson, Elijah King, Kenny Wilson, and Kyle Sessions. Honorary pallbearers will be: Danny Richardson, Jerry Richardson, Terry Richardson, Russell Roberts, Milton Ladymon, and Frankie Roberts.

Landess Funeral Home and Crematory of Malden is in charge of the arrangements.