James W. Richards, 76, of Cranston, passed away on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Kent Hospital. James was born on December 7, 1946 to the late Americo Richards and Mildred (Oxx) Richards in Providence.
Jim graduated from Mount Pleasant High School and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Bryant University. Following a brief career in accounting he moved into retail as he wasn’t meant to sit behind a desk. Later in life he moved on to become a full-time caregiver for the love of his life, his late wife Ellen-Ora (Cesana) Richards. He was a member of the MS Dream Center and a volunteer at the Mason’s Robert J. Allen Medical Equipment Distribution Center.
James is survived by his children, Mark Richards of Cranston, RI, James Richards of Brooklyn, NY and Shelton (Shelly) Duelm, son-in-law Bradley Duelm, and grandsons Troy, Noah and John Duelm of Wethersfield, CT.
In addition to his children and grandchildren, he is survived by his brother, Joseph and his wife, Nora, of North Falmouth, MA; his sister, Ann-Marie Richards of Warwick, RI; and his nephew, Jonathan Richards of Somerville, MA. He leaves behind his in-laws, John & Alice Cesana of Charlestown, RI; Anthony & Rachel Cesana of Woonsocket, RI; George & Anna Cesana of Warwick, RI; and Patricia Cesana of Myrtle Beach, SC. He is predeceased by brother-in-law Mark Cesana and his late husband, Gerry Nadeau; and sister-in-law Rebecca Cesana. He was a beloved nephew, uncle, and cousin to the entire Richards, Ricciotti and Cesana families.
A lover of music, especially lyrics, Jim taught himself to play the ukulele and even in his final days shared aptly fitting lyrics he appreciated with his children:
“And I don't mind all the lines
From all the times I've laughed and cried
Souvenirs and little signs of the life I've lived”
~ Alan Jackson “The Older I Get”
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the MS Dream Center, 300 Tollgate Road, Suite 104, Warwick, RI 02886.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of James W. Richards, visit the Tribute Store.
