Wendell Burch Richardson

Wendell Burch Richardson, 78, of Benton, beloved brother, uncle, and friend, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Sunday, October 20, 2024.

He was born on March 26, 1946, in Cleveland, Tennessee to the late Rev. Arthur and Mary Kate Richardson.

Wendell was a graduate of Polk County High School and received his master’s degree in music from Lee University. He loved and dedicated his life to teaching students music in the Polk County School System and Crescent City, Florida School System. Wendell also served as music minister, pianist and organist in several churches in the Polk County area as well as in Crescent City, Florida. He was presently serving as Music Director at Benton United Methodist Church. Wendell gave his life to the Lord at a young age and dedicated his life to serving the Lord through his passion for music.

In addition to his parents, Rev. Arthur and Mary Kate Richarson, he was preceded in death by his infant sister, Juanita Richardson; brother-in-law, Donald Rogers; nephew, Perry Rogers.

Left to cherish the many memories include his sister, Katherine Rogers; brother, Jerry (Rebecca) Richardson; nieces, Lynn Dee (Chris) Horne, and Karen (Joe) Partyka; nephew, Kipp (Buffy) Richardson; niece-in-law, Janet Rogers; great nieces, Katie (Dalton) Monroe, Keri (Brendon) Wilkey, Klover Richardson, Kambri Richardson, Liberty Horne, and Lydia Horne; great nephew, Boston Richardson. Several special cousins, especially Mary Ann Blackwell and all the students that Wendell shared his love for music with.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2024, in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home of Benton. 

His family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, prior to the service at the funeral home.

A Graveside Committal service will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Old Ocoee Baptist Church Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.