Sandhills_Sentinel

Sam Frank Richardson, Jr., AKA “Poppa Sam” joined his final band in heaven on April 11, 2019, after complications from flu and pneumonia.

Sam was born on September 11, 1949 in Guilford County, NC to the late Sam Frank Sr. and Annie Mae Richardson. After high school, Sam proudly joined the United States Air Force where he discovered his love for computers. After leaving the Air Force, he worked with the Pentagon where he received an award of recognition for developing a computer program which saved our government a “slew” of money. Music ran through his veins. This was a gift his father planted in his DNA and one in which he shared with his children and grandchildren. He was a member of multiple bands over the years covering everything from classic rock, country and gospel. If he wasn’t strumming his guitar, his second joy was casting a fishing line in the Cape Fear River, where the catfish grew as big as he was—at least that was the story he told. Speaking of big, we can’t forget about the size of Sam’s heart. Sam took many children into his home to raise, as if they were his own: nieces, nephews, grandchildren and many others, providing them with love, education and his most valuable advice to, “Keep it simple, Stupid.”

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Ruth; children: Sam Richardson III and wife Gena; Chris Richardson and wife Carol; Barbara and husband Joe; Judy, Wally and Jeff. His brothers, Ron Richardson and wife Linda and Les and his wife Natalie. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Justin (Natalie), Caleb, Daniel, Angela, Janelle, Brittany and numerous extended family members. He also leaves behind his best friend, George.

Sam will be missed dearly.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, April 14, 2019 at 2 p.m. at Boles Funeral Home in Southern Pines. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com

Services entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

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