SHINGLEHOUSE, PA --- Donald E. Richardson, 76, of Shinglehouse, PA, but a nomad at heart, went home to be with the Lord with his loving family by his side in his home on Saturday, February 17, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on Thursday, March 6, 1947, in Bozeman, Montana, a son of Harold E. and Kathleen Lutes Richardson. In July of 1978, in Kalispell, Montana, he married Catherine S. “Scottie” Lightner, who survives.
Don was a graduate of Belgrade High School in Belgrade, Montana, and was a graduate of The College of Santa Fe, New Mexico, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Education. He also received his pilot’s license at age 17.
Don was a US Army veteran having served in the Vietnam War for 19 months. During his military career, Don was awarded two Air Medals, which are the equivalent of Bronze Stars. He flew just under 1,000 combat hours as a crew chief. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. After the war, he joined the US Army Special Forces (Airborne) and later served in the US National Guard.
After 20 plus years working in accounting, Don changed careers to pursue his passion and became a history teacher. He taught social studies for 18 years in New Mexico and North Carolina. He retired from teaching at Southern Lee High School in Sanford, NC in 2014.
Don was a member of Crosstown Alliance Church in Shinglehouse. He enjoyed history, writing, and traveling. Don’s greatest love was his family.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 45 years, Scottie; five daughters, Cydney R. (Don Brewer) Lair of Dillon, Montana, Stephanie Brown of Bozeman, Montana, Mandy K. (Pastor Tim) Taylor of Shinglehouse, Sarah B. (Pastor Danny) Hughes of Charleston, SC, and Amy D. (John) Clutter of Shinglehouse; a stepson, Brennan R. Downing of Los Angeles, CA; sixteen grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; a brother, Doug E. (Andrea) Richardson of Highland, CA; a sister, Ann E. (Jon) Dodge of Kingman, AZ; and several nieces and nephews.
Don was predeceased by his parents.
To pay respects to Don and his family, calling hours will be held from 1 pm to 2 pm on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Crosstown Alliance Church, 120 E. Honeoye Street, Shinglehouse, where a Celebration of Life will follow at 2 pm.
Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord military honors on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Crosstown Alliance Church (crosstownalliance.com).
Don entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light at candle, or share a fond memory of Don, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
