Billy Joe Richardson

Billy Joe Richardson, 78, of Fort Scott, Kan., and formerly of Hillsdale, Kan., passed away Dec. 8, 2011, at his home. Graveside services will be 11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011, at Hillsdale Cemetery, Hillsdale, Kan.

Bill was born Oct. 4, 1933, in Hillsdale, Kan., to Harold F. and Thelma (Hittle) Richardson. He was a graduate of Paola High School. Bill married Paula Gail "Sally" Smith on May 26, 1956, in Hillsdale. He served in the U.S. Navy in 1956 and '57. Bill built and assembled cars for General Motors in Kansas City, Kan., for 41 years. He was a member of the Hillsdale Presbyterian Church and the Fort Scott Presbyterian Church and the UAW No. 31. They moved to Fort Scott in 2008 and Bill enjoyed restoring their old vintage home. He liked fishing. He enjoyed coaching Little League football and baseball in Paola as his children grew up. He was also active in the Boy Scouts in Hillsdale. Bill was devoted to his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, RaNae Gresham; and siblings, Jean Stiles and Harold Richardson. Bill is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Sally, of the home; son, William A. Richardson and wife, Kathleen, of State College, Pa.; sisters, Aleta Weaver of Hillsdale and Ava Allen of Paola, Kan.; brother, Robert Richardson of Hannibal, Mo.; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 6--8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 13, at Bruce Funeral Home, 712 S Webster, Spring Hill, KS (913) 592-2244.

Memorial Contributions may be given to Hospice Campassas or the Sharing Bucket of Bourbon County.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home's Web site at www.brucefuneralhome.com