William Hersey “Bill” Richardson died peacefully in hospice care at Braley Care Homes in Hurricane, West Virginia, on February 20, 2026, with his son by his side. He was also surrounded by the nurturing and caring team at Braley Care Homes who showed him great love and kindness over the past couple years.
Bill was born on September 28, 1945, in Pryor, Oklahoma, the fourth child of Hubert O. (“Rich”) Richardson and Helen H. Richardson. His father worked as a chemical engineer for DuPont, and his mother devoted herself to raising their family. Bill grew up in Gibbstown, New Jersey, where as a young student and altar boy he once considered entering the priesthood. Gifted academically, he earned a full scholarship to St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, where he rowed on the crew team and immersed himself in classical studies, learning Greek and Latin. He went on to attend Boston College and later completed his degree in education at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey.
On April 9, 1969, Bill married Francoise Pigeaud in St. Avertin, France, where her father, Maurice Pigeaud—the town’s mayor—officiated their ceremony. The couple lived in France for two years before returning to the United States. Bill and Francoise lived in California for a year before settling in Franklinville, New Jersey. Together they raised their son in South Jersey, Benjamin Pigeaud Richardson, who was born August 24, 1974.
Bill built a meaningful career as a special education teacher at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in Washington Township, New Jersey. He was dedicated to supporting students who needed patience, understanding, and compassion—qualities he embodied in every part of his life. In 2000, he retired to West Virginia, first living in Ripley and later making his home in Cross Lanes. There he became an active member of the local Unitarian Church, where he met Penny Golden.
Penny became Bill’s loving companion and partner for 11 years. They shared a home, a deep friendship, and a life filled with mutual support and simple joys.
Throughout his life, Bill embraced a wide range of passions. He loved woodworking, water skiing, watching classic movies, spending time outdoors and the company of family he loved. He cared for animals, wrote poetry, and treasured time playing catch with his son. Many evenings were spent quietly looking up at the stars, reflecting on the majesty of the heavens. Bill was a gentle soul with a generous heart, guided by a steadfast belief in equality, honesty, and compassion. He admired Abraham Lincoln throughout his life and passed down his values with intention and love.
Bill is survived by his former spouse, Francoise Richardson; his son, Benjamin Richardson, and daughter in law, Jill Stempel; and his two granddaughters, Elodie Josephine Stempel Richardson and Simone Marie Stempel Richardson. He is also survived by his partner, Penny Golden; his sister, Joy McCarthy; his brother, Mark Richardson; and his many nieces and nephews: John Runowicz, Chris Runowicz, Mark Runowicz, Kyra Runowicz, John McCarthy, Kathleen McCarthy, Mark Richardson, Brian Richardson, Sean Richardson, Chris Richardson, and Heather Richardson.
He also leaves behind a large extended family of grandnieces and grandnephews. Bill will be remembered with love and fondness by all those who knew him and connected with him in a meaningful way.
Bill’s remains will be cremated at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home in Poca, West Virginia. A celebration of his life will be held later this year near his hometown in Southern New Jersey.
