James Thomas Richards Jr.

In loving memory of James Thomas Richards, Jr. (“Jim”), 67, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his family (wife, son, and daughter) at his long-time home in Manassas, Virginia on August 1, 2023. Jim was a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather who blessed our hearts each day with his laughter, empathy, imagination, and love. He cared deeply for his family and close friends, spending every waking moment of his life connecting to those he loved and those who loved him. Born on September 12,1955 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jim’s passion for love, laughter, and life was immediately felt by everyone around him. His pursuit of knowledge and his love of history was boundless and remains an inspiration to others around him. Jim was married to his loving wife, Kim, for 39 years. He is also survived by his caring son and daughter, Jimmy and Sara, and his precious grandson, Ethan. Jim’s family was the pride and joy of his life, making it his life’s purpose to care for and make memories with them each and every day. Jim also leaves behind two sisters, Denise and Meg. Jim passed away on August 1 after bravely battling late-stage lung and liver cancer. Jim remained courageous and projected positivity, strength, and hope all while maintaining his wonderful sense of humor throughout his entire battle. His resilience and vibrant spirit were and remains an inspiration to us all. Jim’s family and friends were the center of his universe. He cherished creating memories and always prioritized spending time with them. Some of Jim’s favorite hobbies included vacations with family, fishing, crabbing, hiking, playing guitar, painting, watching movies and sports, reading about pirate and military history, and absorbing the beauty of nature. Jim graduated from Bishop Neumann High School in Philadelphia prior to enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in 1975 during the Vietnam War. After completing his military service as a Sergeant and honorably discharging from the U.S. Air Force, Jim continued with a U.S. government career in contracting working for the Department of the Navy, Defense Finance and Accounting Service, and the Department of Homeland Security. Jim touched the hearts of so many throughout his life and will be deeply missed. He will be forever in the hearts of his family and friends. May Jim rest peacefully in eternal bliss. The family will be holding a visitation for Jim on Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 7:00-9:00pm at Pierce Funeral Home (9609 Center St., Manassas, VA 20110). The funeral service will be held the following day on Sunday, August 13, 2023 beginning at 3:00pm at Pierce Funeral Home. The family respectfully asks that donations be made in memory of Jim in lieu of flowers to the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia (https://osbva.org), Autism Speaks (https://www.autismspeaks.org), or the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (https://www.cbf.org). “In all of your tomorrows, and everything you do, may the luck of the Irish be always with You.”

James Thomas Richards Jr.

September 12, 1955 - August 1, 2023