James D. Richard

James D. Richard (Jim), age 83, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on October 15, 2024, from complications related to cancer treatments. He was born in San Francisco, CA on June 22, 1941, attending both St. Ignatious and Mission High Schools. After graduation, Jim enlisted in the army and served for four years. 

After his discharge, he met and married the love of his life, Dawn and spent an adventurous 57 years together before Dawn passed in 2022. Together, they raised two children. Jim was a true family man, never missing an opportunity to support his kids in whatever sport or school activity they were involved with. He was an even more devoted grandfather to his three grandchildren. 

Jim spent his career working at Pacific Gas & Electric, where he was a gas service man for more than 32 years. Working in Redwood City, San Mateo and Woodland, California-- PG&E was not only his workplace, but the source of countless friendships that he would treasure throughout his life. 

After his retirement from PG&E at 55, he and Dawn began a second career as Travel Agents. Together, they built a business that revolved around creating fun and memorable trips for friends and family. This also gave them the opportunity to travel the world together. They were especially fond of cruises, embarking on more than 30 journeys. 

Jim was known for his hearty laugh, hospitality, and willingness to always lend a hand. He was blessed to have many lifelong friends whom he cherished. A lifelong practicing Catholic, Jim’s friends and family knew how devoted he was to his faith. 

As a dedicated sports fan, Jim never missed a 49er, San Francisco Giants or Golden State Warriors game. Always known as the life of the party, finding Jim and Dawn out on the dance floor was a regular occurrence. 

Jim was also preceded in death by his parents, Phillip Richard, Ralph and Mary Arnold and his brother, Gary Richard. 

He is survived by his son Rick Richard and his wife Enid, his daughter Renée Richard and her husband Dennis, three beautiful grandchildren Olivia, Sophie and Abigail, his brother Phil Richard, his sister Lorretta Robicheau and many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Funeral arrangements will be held on Monday, October 28 @ 10:00 Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Jim Richard.