William Berkley Richardson Jr.

William Berkley Richardson, Jr., 74, a lifelong resident of Parkersburg, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026.

Born and raised in Parkersburg, Bill was a friend to all and a best friend to many. He touched countless lives in positive ways, always willing to lend a helping hand. His generosity, sense of humor, and enthusiasm for life left an unforgettable impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Following his graduation from Parkersburg High School, Bill attended West Virginia University, where he earned both his undergraduate degree and his Juris Doctor. While at West Virginia University, he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships, including with his freshman roommate and dear friend, Burr Crichton. He began practicing law alongside his father at Richardson & Richardson, a firm that later became Richardson, Richardson & Campbell when Robert "Bob" Campbell joined the practice.

For forty-nine years, Bill was a respected member of the West Virginia State Bar and was also a former member of the Massachusetts State Bar. He was admitted to practice before all courts of the State of West Virginia, the United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of West Virginia, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and the United States Court of Federal Claims.

Throughout his distinguished legal career, Bill was recognized as both an accomplished attorney and a dedicated leader within the profession. He served as an elected member of the West Virginia State Bar Board of Governors, as President of the West Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and as an Invited Fellow of the West Virginia Bar Foundation. He also generously provided pro bono legal services through Legal Aid of West Virginia, believing deeply that access to justice should be available to everyone.

Bill's commitment to service extended well beyond the practice of law. He devoted countless hours to organizations that strengthened the Parkersburg community. He was a longtime member of Parkersburg Elks Lodge No. 198; a life member and Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church of Parkersburg; a generous supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Parkersburg; a past officer of the Parkersburg Jaycees; a member of the Parkersburg High School Foundation; a member of the Salvation Army Advisory Board; a member of the Mid-Ohio Valley Aviation Association; and served as President of the Wood County Airport Authority.

Bill was known by many affectionate nicknames throughout his life, including "Billy," "Wheels," "Grand Cat," and "Captain Bill." Yet the name that perhaps suited him best was "Big Cat," the name by which he was lovingly known by family and friends.

As "Big Cat," Bill embraced life with boundless enthusiasm. He cherished his family and friends, loved to travel, and found joy piloting both boats and airplanes. He especially enjoyed traveling to France and St. Martin, returning often and delighting in speaking fluent French with everyone he met along the way. Whether sharing stories over a good glass of wine, flying with friends, or simply making someone laugh, Bill lived with a contagious energy. His zest for life was his most profound characteristic, and he shared it through his big heart and countless acts of kindness throughout his lifetime.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Berkley Richardson and Edythe "Mimi" Ourbacker Richardson.

He is survived by his sister, Jane Richardson D'Angelo (Steve); his nephews, Dyer Berton McCabe, Jr. (Jessica) of Rhinebeck, New York, and Jonathan Peyton McCabe (Lena) of Maui, Hawaii; his great-nephew and great-nieces, Roen Richardson McCabe, Henly Thompson McCabe, and Farrah Jane McCabe; and his very special and loyal companion, Linda Cline; her daughter, Nicole Frederick (Josh); and grandchildren, Landrie and Camden Frederick. Every one of them has been touched by Bill's compassion, love, generous spirit, and, at times, his delightful craziness—memories they will carry with them throughout their lives.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who sent cards, visited, shared stories, and offered prayers during Bill's recent health struggles. Your kindness, friendship, and support brought great comfort to Bill and to those who loved him. We will be forever grateful.

Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church, 813 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia, on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Family and friends will be received at the church one hour prior to the service.

Visitation will be held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Green Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia, on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation, 1620 Park Avenue, Parkersburg, WV 26101, or to Parkersburg Elks Lodge No. 198, 605 Green Street, Parkersburg, WV 26101. Please note that gifts are made in memory of Bill Richardson. Both organizations were deeply valued by Bill, and he was always an enthusiastic advocate for their missions.