Joél Daniel Richardson

Joél Daniel Richardson, a beacon of kindness and strength, left this world on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Hannibal, MO, at the age of 37. Born on October 4, 1987, in St. Louis, Missouri, Joél was the beloved son of Cedric and Karry (Sprague) Richardson.

Joel accepted the Lord in his heart as his personal savior at the age of 4, and later reaffirmed his faith through baptism.

A visitation in remembrance of Joel will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Hannibal First Church of the Nazarene, 4000 W Ely Rd, Hannibal, MO. The funeral service will follow at 10:00 AM at the same location, with Bishop Gary Pleasant, Joél’s uncle, officiating. Burial will take place at Grand View Burial Park.

He leaves behind his devoted parents, Cedric and Karry Richardson of Hannibal, MO, and his precious daughter, Ava Jolea Richardson of Emden, MO. His legacy lives on through numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends-each touched in a unique way by Joél’s life and spirit.

Joél is reunited in spirit with his paternal grandparents, Eddie Lee and Junetta Richardson, and his maternal grandparents, Donald and Lois Sprague, who always welcomed him into their embrace with open arms.

Joél’s educational journey began in Hannibal, where he graduated from Hannibal High School in 2006. He pursued his passion for helping others by earning an associate degree in Respiratory Care from Hannibal-LaGrange University. He began his career as a Respiratory Therapist and later found deep fulfillment as a Certified Personal Trainer at the Hannibal YMCA. More recently, he served as an independent provider, inspiring and uplifting countless individuals.

During his high school years, he was active in sports, always bringing people together with his grit and energy. Outside of the gym, he found joy in watching sports and spending quality time with his family and close friends, who were always on his mind.

As we reflect on the moments we shared and the lives Joél touched, we remember him with gratitude to God who granted us the privilege of being a part of his journey.

Pallbearers will be Raphael Crider, Jr., cousin, William Anthony Ewing, Jr., cousin, Randall Richardson, Jr., cousin, Adam Fohey, friend, Anthony McLeod, friend, and Nathan Munger, friend.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Donald Franklin, Jr., cousin, and Raphael Crider, Sr., uncle.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hannibal YMCA, in care of the Grand View Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family and a video tribute viewed on Joél's memorial page at www.grandviewfuneral.com