Ellis "Rich" C. Richardson IV

Ellis C. "Rich" Richardson IV, Harrington, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 3, 2023, from the Delaware Hospice Center, Milford, He was 66.  Rich was born in Camp Lejeune, NC to the late, Ellis C. III and Rosa E. Richardson.

Rich served his country proudly in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic for 5 years.  Rich was the owner and operator of the Betsy Ross Pizza Restaurant of Harrington.  He could always be found there working hard behind the counter or in the kitchen, serving some of the best food around.  He loved to serve the community and the community in turn loved him back.

What little free time he had, he was an avid fisherman, loved to hunt, and loved being outside in nature.  He liked to golf when he was younger, and he enjoyed watching NASCAR, and rooting for his favorite team, the Philadelphia Eagles.  Rich was called by many as the "Dad" of Harrington.  He would give you the shirt off of his back and put others above himself, oftentimes helping others in secret without recognition.  He had a great sense of humor, always laughing and always happy.  Even through his sickness, he never complained.  He was a truly devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  His generosity, love of life, and presence in his community will forever be missed.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Bernadette Richardson; and a son, Christopher Richardson.

He is survived by his son, Ellis C. Richardson V; daughters, Victoria Richardson, Vannessa Richardson; brothers, John Richardson, Eric Richardson; sister, Evelyn Richardson; grandchildren, Evelyn Richardson, Ellise Richardson, Ryder Carey, Harper Carey, Porter Carey, and one on the way.

A visitation will be on held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at the Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 South DuPont Hwy., Harrington, DE, from 5 to 7 PM with a Eulogy starting at 6:30 PM.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 109 Dixon St Harrington, DE, on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 9 AM.  Interment will be at the Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington. 

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, please visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to express or send condolences.

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