Ronnie Richardson

Ronald “Ronnie” Oren Richardson

The greatest healing is going home to be with Jesus, and Oren Ronald Richardson, age 75, a resident of Columbus, MS went home to our Heavenly Father on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. Ronnie was a native of Columbus, MS. He graduated from SD Lee High School in 1967. He attended MUW and graduated with a business degree.

He was an entrepreneur, and you might remember him from Trotter’s, Firestone, Richardson Towing, Richland Realty, Creative Design, United Propane, or Corbell Oil. Ronnie was always looking for something new. He loved to work and found it hard to retire. 

Ronnie was of the Presbyterian faith, and had been a member of First Presbyterian, Main Steet Presbyterian in Columbus, and the last church home he had, Trinity Presbyterian in Fairhope, AL. 

Ronnie was a caring, loving husband, and father. He loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports. He also enjoyed traveling and Switzerland was his favorite place to visit. 

He leaves behind, to cherish his memory, his wife Terry of 50 years, daughter, Kelee (Justin), and sons, Andrew (Melissa), and Taylor (Jessica). Ronnie had five grandchildren, William Patterson, Wesley Patterson, Walter Patterson, Mathew Richardson, and his princess-granddaughter, Amelia Rose Richardson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Oren and Helen Richardson.

Ronnie fought a valiant battle with cancer. He entered many clinical trials in hopes of helping himself as well as others. The wonderful doctors who helped him through this battle are Dr. Robert Howland, Dr. Jerry Turner, and Dr. Wesley Barett, in the Golden Triangle. Dr. Antonarkis (John Hopkins), Dr. Alton Santon (Tulane), Dr. Graeme Bolger (UAB), Dr. Patricia Rich (Cancer Centers of America), and Dr. Michael Meshad (Southern Cancer Institute). 

The family is thankful for all the prayers lifted in his name by both individuals and church groups. They were appreciated, felt, and sustained us through our darkest hours.

During Ronnie’s final months, he received many blood transfusions. A special thank you to the American Red Cross, and to all the people who give blood donations. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to redcross.org, or blood donations at any blood drive. 

A private family graveside was held on Feb. 22, at Friendship Cemetery, with Dr. James Shull officiating. Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory oversaw arrangements.