James C. Richardson

James C. “Jim” Richardson, Lt. Col. (Ret) USA, age 85, departed this life for his eternal home on Sunday, October 17, 2021 in Maryville, TN. He was born September 12, 1936 in Milan, IN. He was a member of First Baptist Church Maryville where he was active in the church’s Family Life Center ministries. Jim enjoyed all outdoor activities and thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine while in his early sixties. He remained active in his later years by participating in the Tennessee Senior Olympic basketball and track and field events. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Tennessee Wesleyan College and a Master’s Degree from the University of Tennessee. Following his 2,000-mile journey on the AT, he refocused his life to serving others and devoted his retirement years to volunteering with various community organizations. He was especially fond of the time he spent with his granddaughters through the library reading programs; for many years he served as the caretaker for the library Rose Gardens. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles C. and Dorothy M. Shelton Richardson; his wife, Josephine Brackins Richardson. He is survived by his sons, Brent and wife, Tammee of El Paso, TX, Mark of Johnson City, Chris and wife, Dawn of Maryville; granddaughters, Brandi Folkner, Courtney and Brooklin Richardson, Jolina Richardson; grandson, Dustin Richardson; great-great-granddaughters, Faith Folkner, Hayden Richardson; great-great-grandson, Zachary Folkner; brother, Max of Sevierville; and several nieces and nephews. Following a 20-year career, he retired from the United States Army Medical Service Corps where he was the recipient of numerous awards and citations to include the Legion of Merit. Family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at Smith Trinity Chapel. Funeral Service with military honors will follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. Bill Booth officiating. Family and friends will assemble at 11:00 AM Friday, October 22, 2021 for Entombment at Grandview Pavilion. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Maryville Family Center, 202 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James C. Richardson please visit our Sympathy Store.