William Henry Richard

William Henry Richard
June 29, 1941 – October 31, 2025
William Henry "Bill" Richard, a proud Navy veteran, devoted husband, loving father, and steadfast friend, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, in Hurst, Texas, at the age of 84. His life was one marked by integrity, service, and a deep and abiding love for his family.
Born on June 29, 1941, in Sweeny, Texas, to Kenneth Burl Richard and Martha Della Woodruff Richard, Bill grew up with the values of hard work and loyalty-principles that guided him throughout his life.
In 1967, Bill married the love of his life, Joyce Arlene Miller, on New Year's Eve-a fitting beginning for a couple who embraced life's adventures with courage and joy. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two children: William Henry Richard Jr. (wife, Jo Ann) of Haslet, Texas, and Julie Ann Richard Clower (husband, Terry) of Stafford, Virginia. Bill and Joyce shared 44 years of marriage filled with laughter, love, and countless memories before Joyce's passing in 2012.
Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 20 years, dedicating two decades to defending the freedoms he held dear. His naval career carried him across oceans and continents, yet his heart always remained anchored to family and home. After retiring from military service, Bill began a second career in the coal mines of Gillette, Wyoming, where he worked for another 20 years. There, he and Joyce raised their children, instilling in them the same strength, work ethic, and kindness that defined his own life.
Upon retiring from the mines, Bill and Joyce returned to Texas, settling in Hemphill, where they enjoyed 13 peaceful years together. Hemphill became their sanctuary-a place where Bill spent many happy days fishing on the lake, tending to his garden, and crafting beautiful pieces in his woodworking shop. After Joyce's passing, Bill found love again and married Brenda Maureen Bartle on September 15, 2012. Together, Bill and Brenda cherished a quiet, gentle life in Hemphill until her passing on December 25, 2024.
Bill's family was his pride and joy. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his children, grandchildren, and extended family. His grandchildren-Robyn Kay Richard, Avery Jo Wooton, and Liam Orion Richard, all of Haslet, Texas-were the light of his later years, bringing him endless joy and purpose.
Through his marriage to Brenda, Bill was blessed with a wonderful extended family: stepdaughters Darlene Thomas (husband, Trent) and Kimberly Hernandez (husband, Reagan), both of Lumberton, Texas; step-grandchildren Candice Gore (husband, Mitch) of Evadale; Caleb Thomas (wife, Kelsay) of Port Acres; Gage Hernandez of Austin; Carley Causey, Addison Hernandez, and Cambrie Thomas, all of Lumberton; and step-great-grandchildren Steele Gore, Tynleigh Gore, Adalyne Causey, Dawson Thomas, and Lainey Faye Thomas.
Bill is also survived by his brother Kenneth Richard and wife, Margaret of Katy, Texas, whose lifelong friendship and brotherly bond remained a source of comfort and laughter throughout the years.
In his final year, Bill sold his beloved Hemphill home and moved to Haslet, where he spent cherished days surrounded by his children and grandchildren. His wisdom, gentle humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Bill's life was one of service-to his country, his family, and his community. He was a man of quiet strength, who met each chapter of life with resilience and grace. Those who knew him will remember his ready smile, his unwavering kindness, and his deep love for those around him.
May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with Joyce and Brenda, and forever remembered for the love and light he brought into the lives of others.
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