Neil Stephen Richards

Neil Stephen Richards, 77, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at his home. He was born on October 16, 1948, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Neilon and Anna (Wohler) Richards.

Neil is survived by his long-time love, Norma Duckett, daughter Jennifer (Greg) Park, son Joshua (Stephanie) Richards, grandchildren, Jasmine, Sarah, Olivia, Gabriel, and Zachary, sister Martha (Marty) Lindgren, niece Alison (Marc) Glinsboeckel, nephew Michael (Rayan) Scott and several great nieces and nephews.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Neilon and Anna, uncles Norman and Johnny, his aunt Mary, and his brother-in-law, Chuck.

Neil was a 1969 graduate of Theology at Tennessee Temple Bible School, Chattanooga, TN, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis in 1979.

He served as a Baptist minister at Calvary Baptist Church in Richmond, IN, Garden Baptist Church, Stilesville Baptist Church, and Elizaville Baptist Church in Indianapolis, IN. He was a member of the board of deacons at Arlington Heights Baptist Church, Indianapolis, from 1995-1998. He also served as a substitute preacher at Woodside United Methodist Church, then served as a leader of worship at a home church.

Neil was an avid writer and had two books published, “The Last Walloon” and “The Arrowhead.” He also wrote a poem, “The Aged Campfire,” which was selected to be included in a book of poems entitled, “Theatre of the Mind.”

Neil was well known for his story telling, sense of humor, and generosity. He had a deep Christian faith and a passion for music, reading, writing, and history. He wrote numerous songs over the years and enjoyed playing guitar, riding his bike, and learning new languages. He enjoyed many family traditions, such as hiking on trails at Brown County State Park, playing miniature golf, and visiting various places in downtown Indianapolis, including the Children’s Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, World War Memorial, Soldiers and Sailors Monument, Indiana State Museum, and Indianapolis Museum of Art. He also enjoyed going to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and watching Indians baseball games at Victory Field.

He had a love of animals, particularly birds. His favorite bird was the red winged black bird, which he would observe for hours studying its behaviors and listening to its beautiful songs. One of Neil’s favorite activities was dining at MCL Cafeteria with his family, where we shared countless memorable meals together. He also loved to travel to places such as Chattanooga, Flat Rock, Gettysburg, Mammoth Cave, Lincoln’s Boyhood Home, and Lake Worth and Redington Beach, Florida where he could be near the ocean and enjoy its peaceful beauty.

Neil’s life was filled with love, adoration, and a deep appreciation for the people who surrounded him. The kindness and joy he brought to our lives will forever be cherished. His memory will continue to live in our hearts and minds as we remember the wonderful moments we shared with him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to: Indy Book Project at 1539 W. Oak St. Zionsville, IN 46077 or www.indybookproject.org  

Services will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Indiana Funeral Care, 2433 E. Main St. Greenwood, Indiana. Visitation hours will be from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 3:00 p.m.