Charles Garfield Richardson III

Charles "Chuck" or "Charlie" Garfield Richardson III, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at home in Troy, Michigan on April 7, 2025, surrounded by love. He was 62 years old.
Charlie was born in Oakland County, Michigan, and spent his early years in Union Lake and then moving to Davisburg, MI. Over the years, he called many places home-Malibu, California; Atlanta, Georgia; Miami, Florida; and finally, Troy, Michigan, where he lived with his family from 2014 until his passing.
Charlie was a proud graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA, where he earned both his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration in Industrial Marketing. He brought his boundless energy, sharp mind and natural charisma to every role he held throughout his accomplished career, including leadership positions at Arthur-Garfield Agency, Decimal Engineered Systems, Precision Extraction Solutions, Taylor Contracting, Paris Corporation, Alpha Microsystems and Data Financial Consulting Services. Charlie was also a licensed insurance agent and stockbroker. In every role, he was known for his tireless work ethic, strategic insight and the joy he brought into every room. He was also a talented cook and master of the grill and loved entertaining.
In 2006, Charlie married the love of his life, Cynthia, in Atlanta, Georgia. Together they built a life full of laughter, adventure and deep devotion. He was a dedicated and proud father to their daughter, Sienna, who was his greatest joy and constant source of pride. Whether traveling to new cities and countries, hiking, admiring ancient ruins, or helping at Sienna's many band events, Charlie found purpose in being present and making memories.
He adored and treasured his three sisters-Tracy, Lisa, and Kerrie-holding lifelong bonds with each of them. He had a very special relationship with his adoring mother, Donna, sharing endless time together and staying close throughout every season of life. Charlie was also deeply shaped by his grandfather, Grandpa Gar, who helped raise him and whom Charlie adored. Their bond was one of great love, admiration and influence. Charlie also had many nieces, nephews and extended family who experienced his love and joy for life. He was deeply loved by his father-in-law, Hugo (deceased), mother-in-law, Inés, along with Cynthia's siblings and their children.
Charlie will be remembered for his unwavering optimism-always calling with his signature, "GOOD NEWS!" (even if the news that followed was less than perfect). His warmth, laughter and loyalty touched the lives of everyone lucky enough to know him. His friendships endured the test of time, a testament to his big heart and authentic spirit.
He is survived by his wife Cynthia, daughter Sienna, his beloved mother Donna Gustinis, sisters Tracy Richardson (Mark, Fiancé), Lisa Brennan (Michael Brennan), and Kerrie Schneider (Steve Schneider), as well as many nieces, nephews and cherished friends.
Family will receive friends on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at A. J. Desmond & Sons, 2600 Crooks Road, Troy, Michigan 48084, with a prayer service beginning at 6:30 p.m. Charlie will be laid to rest at White Chapel Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established an "Ever Loved" page in honor of Charlie's greatest joy-his daughter, Sienna. She will be attending Michigan State University this fall, and in Charlie's memory, contributions will go toward supporting her college education. Helping Sienna continue her journey was something Charlie deeply hoped for and this fund is a way to carry his love and support forward into her future. Donation link: https://everloved.com/life-of/charles-garfield-richardson/