Nathaniel Richmond

On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, Nathaniel “Nate” Richmond, loving father and husband, passed away at age 59.  Born October 27, 1960 in Chicago, IL to Rudolph Richmond and Elma Lue Shields.  Nathaniel lived an honorable life filled with great love and respect for his family and a passion for technology and music.  

After spending years of his life in Chicago, Nathaniel brought his beloved daughter Natalie Richmond into the world on April 24, 1983.  They lived a beautiful life in Texas prior to Nathaniel returning to Chicago in 2006 where he met his current wife, Shirley Williams-Richmond.  Nathaniel was introduced to Shirley on December 19, 2008, and they were married on August 22, 2009, joining them together in love along with her two daughters, Latacia Johnson-Whitten and Gemae Williams.  They returned to Texas in 2012 where they’ve spent the last 8 years of Nathaniel’s life.

Nathaniel was a man of few words and enormous presence with a smile that could warm the room and a sense of humor only a family could love.  Those that knew him admired him for his compassion, good humor and great heart.  Having worked in school districts for most of his career (Chicago Public Schools and Irving ISD), fellow students looked up to Nate as a “cool” guy and strong male role model as he learned the latest trends to stay connected with the “young kids.”  His coworkers appreciated him for his dedication and strong work ethic.  He was a man that did not require a lot of recognition but as a testament to how committed he was to everything he chose to do, he was awarded Employee of the Month at Irving ISD.

Those that loved Nate cherished his genuine ability to be himself.  Rather he was getting excited over old school songs and music players, randomly purchasing home gadgets or youthfully sneaking treats he was not supposed to eat; Nate could constantly be found in a state of content.

Those that experienced him felt a strong sense of security.  He was a solid foundation that kept us grounded as we stayed afloat.  An anchor.  Modest by design yet providing true support and stability that could be felt.  He was a great provider, hard worker, kind spirit and gentle soul.  He loved the simple things in life …like soaking in a bath tub while listening to his music by candle light, and drinking a cup of coffee or tea.  His favorite beverage was Diet Pepsi and his favorite color was blue.  He loved going to the movies and eating buttered popcorn, as much as he loved traveling.  Nathaniel’s easy going spirit constantly served as a reminder to always be grateful and appreciative for the pieces of heaven we have here on earth.  All of these things made him a great man, but what made him exceptional was his constant sacrifice of time.

Nate was a road dog that would go wherever you needed him; a great listener, if you didn’t count him falling asleep or listening to music in his head phones; and a shockingly funny jokester that liked to playfully hassle servers at restaurants and put a smile on their faces.  However, most importantly …he was an all-around standup guy.

Words cannot describe how greatly Nathaniel will be missed.  I pray he will rest just as peacefully as he lived.  Though his body will be laid to rest, the remarkable impression he has made on this earth will last forever.  

Nathaniel was preceded in death by his late mother Elma Richmond.  He is survived by his loving wife Shirley Williams-Richmond, daughters Natalie Richmond (Ramon), Latacia Johnson-Whitten (Derrhun) and Gemae Williams; four grandchildren, his father, Rudolph Richmond, one brother, Reginald Richmond, one sister, Cynthia McCray, and his close Brother-Cousin Carl Richmond, to name a few of the earthly souls of which he has connected. 

Funeral services for Nathaniel Richmond are to be held on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Gateway Funerals and Cremations, followed by his burial at Restland Cemetery.

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