Trustee Jerry N. Richardson, Jr.

Jerry N. Richardson Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend, departed this life and took flight into eternal rest surrounded by the love of his family early Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025.

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, on February 11, 1949, Jerry grew up learning the value of faith, family, and teamwork. He attended Long Branch Elementary and proudly graduated with the 1967 class of Matthew W. Gilbert High School, where he excelled in athletics. His love for sports and competition was clear early on, paving the way for a lifelong commitment to the game he loved most—football. Jerry went on to further his education at Albany State University, later graduating from Edward Waters College, and pursued graduate studies at Florida A&M University while working toward his master’s degree.

For more than three decades, Jerry dedicated his career to the Duval County School System as both an educator and coach. To many, he wasn’t just a teacher—he was a coach on and off the field, shaping the lives of young men and women with lessons of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. He retired in 2011 after more than 30 years of service, leaving behind a legacy not measured by wins and losses, but by the countless lives he inspired.

Jerry’s passion for football extended beyond the sidelines. He was a true sportsman at heart—whether cheering from the bleachers, watching a game on TV, or sharing stories of seasons past. He loved grilling after a long day, listening to smooth jazz and R&B, and celebrating life’s victories with family and friends. To his loved ones, he was the rock—the steady leader, the patriarch who coached his family through life with love, wisdom, and strength.

Faith was the foundation of Jerry’s journey. He was a lifelong member of Greater Payne AME Church, where he served faithfully on the Trustee Board, in the Celestine Waye Mass Choir, the Sons of Allen, and other ministries. Off the field of faith, he continued to serve his community—leading as president of the Matthew W. Gilbert Alumni Chapter, president of his neighborhood’s Homeowners Association, and as a proud member of SHAD Club #20 of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Nu Chapter. Wherever there was a need for leadership, Jerry stepped up, always ready to give his all for the team.

Jerry was predeceased by the love of his life, Deborah Kay Richardson; his parents, Jerry Richardson Sr. and Ethel E. Williams Richardson; his brother-in-law, James Owens; and sisters-in-law, Belinda Wilson and Sharon Peace.

He leaves to cherish his memory: son, Jerry Devin Richardson; daughter, Gabrielle Debony Tai’Sharon Robinson; granddaughter, Sasha Karrine Billingslea; grandson, Angelo Eugene James Carr; sisters, Janice Buckman (Bert Buckman) and Velinda Owens; sister-in-law, Felicia Lewis (Anthony); nieces, Stacia Flemming, Kisha Peace, Chandrieka Pennerman (Joel), Dawn Owens-Ross (Jonathan), and Jalesa Brown (Jared); nephews, Korey Peace, Derrick Robinson II, Tony Peace Jr., Nathan Smith Jr., Kevin Wilson (Tracy), and Kevin Wilson; godchildren, David Simmons, Reginald Rogers, Raphael Rogers, Ronald Maurice Waye, Jordan Whittle, and Joshua Whittle (Sandra); god-sister, Willean Hadley; god-brother, Herbert Hadley; special brother/cousin, Ronald Waye (Debbie); and lifelong friends, Harold Manning, Alphonso West, and Patricia Kearse. He also leaves behind a team of extended family members, colleagues, former students, and friends who will forever carry his legacy in their hearts.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the dedicated caregivers of Community Hospice & Palliative Care and Baptist Home Health, whose compassion and support brought comfort to Jerry and his family during his final season of life.

Jerry’s life was a true testament to faith, family, and football. Though he has hung up his earthly whistle, his lessons, love, and legacy will continue to guide us for generations to come.