Daniel L. Richardson

Daniel Lee Richardson (Danny) was born to Rev. James Samuel Richardson and Rebecca Graham Richardson on December 1, 1937 in Atmore, Alabama. He grew up as the youngest of eight children in Repton, Alabama. Danny married Louise Brown in 1955. Their union produced a daughter, Miranda Richardson.

Danny arrived in Washington, DC in 1966 by way of Repton, AL; Pensacola, FL; and Brooklyn, NY. He worked at Shirley Construction Company for more than 25 years before retiring in 1997. Danny couldn't sit still, however, and grew restless. So, he returned to work part-time at Earl’s Car Parts in Washington, DC where he worked until his illness. While hesitant to hire an “older gentleman” Danny’s hiring manager later admitted that Danny was one of the best employees he’d ever had.

Danny suffered a catastrophic stroke on January 7, 2013. While he was not expected to survive long term, Danny proved all the doctor’s wrong, and lived nearly 12 years, surrounded by the loving care of his family. Danny passed in his sleep on November 6th before daybreak. Danny will be met on the other side by his mom and dad who predeceased him as well as all of his siblings: Mary L. Bell, Johnny Richardson, Leslie W. Richardson, Pearlie M. Parker, Juanita Kennedy, Vernolia Dickerson, and Ananise Richardson. He will also be met by his favorite nieces and nephews who predeceased him.

Danny leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Miranda Richardson of Crofton, Maryland; his granddaughter, Tisha L. Richardson of Shady Side, MD, and his grandson and namesake, Daniel S. Richardson of Crofton, MD. Of the myriads of friends that surrounded Danny throughout his life, only two of them remain: John Bryant (Smokie) of Cherokee, North Carolina and Tommy Levy of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Throughout his life, Danny was known as “ one of the happiest men you’ll ever meet.” He enjoyed sharing hospitality with his friends. Danny also enjoyed “being silly” and watching Walker, Texas Ranger. 

The world is definitely a much darker and colder place because Daniel Lee Richardson is no longer here to bless us with the warmth of his smile.