Henry J. Richardson III

(Age 84)
Henry J. "Hank" Richardson, III, "The Father of Black Traditions of International Law" and Professor Emeritus at the Beasley School of Law at Temple University, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, at 84 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Dana Martin Richardson, his brother, Rodney Richardson, Esq., his step-daughter, Eden Johnson, and numerous cousins. Henry was predeceased by his parents, Roselyn Comer Richardson and Henry J. Richardson, Jr., Esq., as well as his former wife, Renee Francine Poussaint.
Henry was a renowned scholar of international law, a leading figure in African affairs, and an esteemed educator and mentor. "Hank," as he was called by many, loved basketball and was an avid collector of books. He was a loyal friend, devoted brother, and loving husband. Over a lifetime dedicated to scholarship, diplomacy, and justice, Professor Richardson left an indelible mark on the global legal landscape and forever changed the lives of all who had the privilege to know him.
A Celebration of Life for Professor Richardson will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Foundry United Methodist Church, 1500 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036. The family will receive friends at Foundry United Methodist Church before the funeral service, from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025. The burial will take place immediately following the funeral services, at St. Paul's Rock Creek Cemetery, 201 Allison Street NW, Washington, DC 20011.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the Temple Law School Henry J. Richardson III Award for International Human Rights Law and Justice, or the Racial Justice Committee at Foundry United Methodist Church. Arrangements by McGuire.