William R. Richardson

William "Bill" Richardson, 80, passed away On Sunday, September 29, 2024. Born on the vibrant island of St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., on August 8, 1944 to Maria Riera and Lionell Gaston Richardson. He was the oldest of seven children. Raised by his mother Maria, along with his siblings, Daniel, Eddie, Jeanie, Lorraine, Harry, and Randy, in the Bronx, eventually settling in Brooklyn.

Bill was lucky to find defining love twice in his life. His first marriage to Julia Irby in August of 1964 brought many amazing memories and two daughters, Yvette Monique in 1966 and Colette Nicole in 1969.

 On July 24th, 1976, Bill was married to Yolanda Richardson. They would share 40 wonderful years together until Yolanda's death in 2016. Together they had daughter Shaina and Bill gained a bonus son, Carl Poree. Bill and Yolanda retired to Florida in 1995. Where they would spend the next 21 years together enjoying all that Florida had to offer, their favorite being bike riding, gardening, bird watching, site seeing and finding new places to dine. Both relationships were significant in different ways, and together they shaped who Bill was.

 Bill went on to become a trailblazer as one of the first men of color in a managerial role at Roosevelt Savings Bank. While excelling in business, he also studied and graduated with a degree in finance from Pace University in New York City. An avid reader, Bil was a man of knowledge and curiosity, always eager to expand his understanding of the world. His dedication to health and well-being was evident throughout his life, as he embraced a lifestyle that reflected his love for vitality and strength. Bill was not only a guiding figure but also a source of laughter with his wry sense of humor, sharp wit, coupled with a stoic demeanor and striking good looks, made him unforgettable to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bill is pre-deceased by his wife Yolanda, parents Maria and Lionell, brother Eddie, Harry, and sister Jeannie. He leaves behind a loving family and dear friends, all deeply touched by his love and now left to grieve his loss. His children Yvette, Carl, Colette, and Shaina. Children in-laws Steven Davidson and Cynthia Poree. Grandchildren: Talik Poree, Ella and Max Davidson, Lola Lindsay, Aiyana Poree and Caleb. As well as his first spouse, Julia Richardson along with a plethora of family and friends. Though his physical presence is gone, the memories and the impact of his life remain with those who cherished him. He will be dearly missed.