Benjamin Richardson

Obituaries

Wednesday, 17 August 2022 05:50

Benjamin “Ben” Thomas Richardson, 98, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 6, 2022. A celebration of life was held on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Scottsboro First United Methodist Church with Dr. Steve Screws officiating. Private graveside services followed in Cedar Hill Cemetery.
Ben was born on Tuesday, May 13, 1924 in Jasper, Alabama. He was a 1942 graduate of Walker County High and received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Science from Auburn University in 1945. He was employed by the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, a profession he loved. In retirement, Ben was fortunate to represent the people of District 23 in the Alabama House of Representatives from 1982-1994 and served as chairman of the Agricultural Committee, the Southern Legislative Agriculture Committee and served on the Alabama Housing Finance Committee for 12 years. During his tenure, he helped author legislation creating the Jackson County Economic Development Authority, Jackson County Water Authority and the Fire Department Funding Program. He was president of the Tuscumbia Kiwanis Club in 1967, president of the Alabama County Agents Association in 1976, served on the Board of Trustees of the University of North Alabama from 1992-2004 and was named Kiwanian of the Year in 2006.
Strong in faith, an active member in church, Ben never met a stranger and was a friend to many. He will be greatly missed for his servant leadership, loyalty and integrity. He was the number one supporter of his family, community and his beloved Auburn Tigers.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joan; her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Thomas Bonner; grandson, Benjamin (Chrissy) Bonner; grandchildren, Elle, Cate, Paige; brother, Lucious Richardson; sister, Elaine Brooks.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 1105 South Broad Street, Scottsboro, Ala in Mr. Richardson’s honor. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.