Obituary

Sterling Richardson was born on December 24, 1948, in Corsicana, Texas, to Clarence Richardson Jr. and Alice Green Richardson. From his earliest days, Sterling carried a spirit of determination, kindness, generosity, and a deep love for music—qualities that would remain with him throughout his life.

Sterling was raised in Waco, Texas, where he enjoyed school, spending time outdoors, playing baseball and football, and riding bikes. He graduated from George Washington Carver High School, where he proudly served as lead trombone in the marching band. One of his most cherished memories was when his band was selected to compete at the 1967 World’s Fair in Montreal, Canada. Sterling often remembered that experience with great pride, as the band felt like “rock stars” after defeating every band in attendance and bringing home the top prize of $1,000.

In 1969, Sterling proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. During his 24 years of dedicated service, he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant and earned the respect, admiration, and loyalty of those who served alongside him. He was honorably discharged in 1993. To Sterling, serving his country was not a sacrifice—it was a privilege, and he carried out that service with honor and distinction.

Sterling met A’donna Linnette Richardson, née Norman, in 1980, and the two were united in marriage in 1984. Their son, Terence Nathanial-Lamar Richardson, was born in 1988. During that season of life, Sterling lovingly embraced the role of “Mr. Mom” while his beloved wife completed her military career. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home where family and friends gathered often—a home filled with love, laughter, music, and the comforting aroma of Grandma Alice’s peach cobbler on Sunday afternoons.

Following his military retirement, Sterling continued to pursue growth and purpose. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Evergreen State College in Tacoma, Washington. He also joined Allen AME Church, where he became a devoted member of the Sons of Thunder Choir. In 2010, Sterling once again answered the call to serve his country, this time in a civilian capacity, working as a Passport Agent at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. He continued in that role until his final retirement in 2022.

After retiring, Sterling devoted his days to the things he loved most: reading the Bible, cheering faithfully for his Dallas Cowboys, caring for his car, and above all, enjoying music. Music was not simply a passion for Sterling—it was part of who he was, a gift that brought joy to his life and to those around him.

Of all the blessings and joys Sterling experienced, none compared to what may have been his greatest encore—his beloved grandson, Raphael. From the moment Raphael was born, Sterling was present with love, patience, and pride. He shared with him a love for music, sports, cars, Hawaiian rolls, and Lorna Doone cookies. Raphael gave him the treasured name “BaBa,” a title that brought Sterling immeasurable joy and happiness beyond anything he could have imagined.

Sterling’s life was a beautiful reflection of service, devotion, faith, family, music, and love. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Sterling Richardson passed from this life on June 20, 2026, at the age of 77, leaving behind a lasting legacy of strength, kindness, warmth, and love. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, A’donna Linnette Richardson; his son, Terence Nathanial-Lamar Richardson and wife Margarita; his grandson, Rapheal Lamar Richardson; his sisters, Margaret Richardson Eastland and husband Rev. Troy Eastland Jr., Donna Kay Richardson, and Ayanna Richardson Clay and husband Richard; his brothers, Nathaniel Richardson, Milton Richardson, and Kenneth Wayne Richardson; his stepmother, Clara Richardson; his stepbrothers and stepsisters; his sister in laws, Jacquelyn Norman Allen and husband Rex, Patricia Norman; his brother in law, Lawrence Norman and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Richardson Jr.; his mother, Alice Green Long; and his stepson, Anthony Lareece Norman.