Edward "Ted" Richardson's Obituary
Edward “Ted” Penrose Hicks Richardson, 88, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025. Born on September 26, 1937, in Lynchburg, Virginia, Ted lived a long and beautiful life marked by devotion, gentleness, and quiet strength.
Ted is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 64 years, Lyn Richardson, with whom he built a life rooted deeply in love and family. He was the cherished son of William and Mary Richardson, and a devoted father to his three daughters: Elizabeth Wylie of Longview, TX; Debbie LeBlanc and husband Joe of Southlake, TX; and Kate Richardson and partner Adam Thibodeaux of Dallas, TX. Ted was also a proud grandfather to Whitney Poynor (Tyse), Niki Leonard (Chase), Jeffrey Wylie, Lauren LeBlanc, Meredith LeBlanc, and Katie LeBlanc, and a delighted great-grandfather to Lee James and Colt Leonard.
Ted honorably served his country in the United States Navy, serving stateside from 1960 to 1964. His time in the Navy instilled in him a sense of discipline, responsibility, and quiet patriotism that he carried with him throughout his life.
In 1968, Ted moved from Houston to Longview, to open the Longview branch of Crown Cork and Seal alongside his father-in-law. This move marked a defining chapter in his life, as Longview became the place where he and Lyn planted their roots, raised their family, and built lifelong friendships. Ted dedicated 35 years to Crown Cork and Seal, a career that took him across the country and around the world. He especially treasured the 2-3 years he spent working in Winchester, Virginia, a meaningful time that brought him back to his beloved home state and allowed him to reconnect with the place where his story began. He officially retired in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, loyalty, and hard work.
Ted’s gentle nature touched everyone who knew him. He had a lifelong love for Walt Disney World, a place that delighted him from the moment it opened in October 1971. He began visiting that very first year, and over the decades it became a cherished part of his life and family memories. Ted returned nearly 75 times with his family, each visit filled with the same wonder, excitement, and joy he felt on his very first trip. Whether he was strolling down Main Street, riding his favorite attractions, or simply soaking in the magic of the parks, Disney World was his happy place — a world where his gentle spirit and childlike enthusiasm shone brightest.
At home, Ted took great pride in caring for his yard, meticulously mowing and keeping it in pristine condition—a peaceful pastime that brought him happiness. His family fondly remembers his uncanny ability to find a front-row parking spot no matter how busy the day, a small but legendary gift that always brought laughter and amazement.
Above all, Ted’s greatest passion in life was his family. His kindness, loving heart, and steady presence will be forever treasured and deeply missed.
A private family service will be held to honor his life.
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