Carl Allen Richardson

Carl Allen Richardson, a vibrant beacon of light in the lives he touched, passed from this world on May 26, 2025, in Livermore, California. Born on January 26, 1987, in Norwich, New York, Carl was a man of remarkable energy and depth, whose spirit was as lively as the melodies he cherished.

Throughout his time on Earth, Carl was many things: a dedicated laboratory engineer at the Lawrence Livermore Federal Laboratory, an adventurer with a thirst for adrenaline, and a devoted musician who poured his heart into every instrument he embraced. His career began with his hands guiding technology on cell phone towers, but it was music that truly made his heart soar. From the halls of his high school jazz band to the soulful notes that echoed throughout his life, Carl’s love for music was unwavering, a backdrop to the rhythm of his existence.

He was the kind of person who lit up the room, striking a balance between intellect and an infectious joy that drew people together. Carl loved wholeheartedly, whether it was playing board games with friends, zooming past on the open roads in his beloved Mustang, or simply sharing laughter with family and friends. He navigated life with an adventurous spirit, even spending time as a foreign exchange student in Siberia, Russia, a testament to his curious nature and love for new experiences.

Carl's legacy will live on through his cherished family members. He is survived by his parents, Priscilla and James McGarvey, along with his sisters: Sasha McGarvey (Otto Muller), Jessica Pierce, Cassandra Ray, and Danielle Delia. He also leaves behind his brothers, Scott Richardson, Geoff Richardson, and Shane McGarvey, and his grandfather, Jim McLaughlin. The joyous sound of family will linger on in the hearts of his nieces and nephews—Emmet "Wolf," Bayard, Keegan, and Ty—as well as his uncles Samuel Nelson (Betsy), Stephen Nelson, Daniel Nelson, and Brian Nelson (Kristen), and cousins Casey and Cooper.

Carl was preceded in death by his biological father, Kenneth Richardson; grandmother, Peggy McLaughlin; and cousin, Katie Nelson. Though he may have departed this earthly realm, his spirit will forever resonate in the gatherings of his loved ones, where laughter and music intertwine in his memorable style.

A memorial service to honor the life of Carl Richardson will be held Saturday; August 2nd at 2pm at the Chapel Of Faith located at 1 Chapel Of Faith Dr. Candler, NC 28715. Family will receive friends 1 hour prior to service in the Chapel Of Faith.

Gathering of friends and family will be held at Overflow Church of Asheville following memorial service, located at 1255A Smokey Park Hwy, Candler, NC 28715. 

In every beat and note of the life he lived, Carl Allen Richardson will always be remembered as the heart that brought exuberance to each moment, an eternal melody that will continue to play in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The care of Mr. Richardson has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Candler.