Gene Richards

Gene Gerald Richards, passed away on September 30, 2026, in Trenton, Michigan. He was born on June 6, 1939, in Lewiston, Michigan, and leaves behind a life marked by devotion to family, steady work, and the simple joys that made him memorable to so many.

Gene built a life that reflected both commitment and character. He was a multi-sport athlete at East Jordan High School - including being an All-State tennis player, an accomplishment that spoke to his discipline and natural ability. Gene spent 32 years as an employee of Pan American World Airways, giving decades of dedicated service in his working life. He also worked a decade for the City of Flat Rock - supporting the city, school and DPW departments. Beyond his career, Gene gave generously of his time to his community through athletics. He coached for many years for Flat Rock Juniors Little League and also served as Assistant Baseball Varsity coach at Flat Rock High School. Those roles placed him in the lives of many young people and families, and they became an enduring part of how he will be remembered.

He was an avid boater and very much enjoyed traveling to see the autumn colors. Those outings and changing seasons brought him happiness, and they reflected a man who appreciated beauty, movement, and time spent well. Gene enjoyed summer outings to Detroit Tigers and Toledo Mud Hens baseball games with family and friends. Gene was also known as being very direct and as someone who knew every person's name, a gift that made others feel recognized and welcomed in his presence.

At the heart of Gene’s life was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Rosemary Richards. He also leaves his sons, Gordon Richards (Melinda), Gene Richards II (Antonia), Damon Richards (Lisa), Don Richards (Donna), Mike Jackson (Michelle), and Chris Jackson. His love continues through his grandchildren, Lee Christian, Bill B, John Gordon, Kristyn Lynn, Madisyn Cheyenne, Tyler Michael, Kayla Marie, Amy Nicole, Lauren Elizabeth, Courtney Clare, Danielle Marissa, Dawson Mathew, Jenell Nicole, and Alena Eve. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Gabriel Michael, Adelyne Rachel Marie, Ayden Ezekiel, Ellana Rebekah, Noah Vincent, Melody Eyla Rose, Magdalen Grace, Jack Joseph, Levi Christian, James Tiberius, Jonathon Aleksander, Brayden, Theodore Spiros, Theo John, Clara Elizabeth, and Lillian Claire.