Virgil Richardson
December 11, 1942 — December 7, 2025
Virgil Richardson, 82, of Corning, passed away on December 7, 2025, at Corning Living Center.
Virgil was born on December 11, 1942, in Success, Arkansas. He began his working life in radio and TV repair and then moved into satellite and cable TV engineering. He was so proud to have designed custom satellite technology for NASA. After retiring, Virgil enjoyed farming with his father, Jake Richardson. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Virgil loved flying and shared that passion with others as a dedicated flight instructor, helping numerous students earn their pilot’s licenses. He was also a faithful member of Grace Missionary Baptist Church in Corning, where he served many years as deacon.
On June 22, 1962, Virgil married the love of his life, Mary Lou Brady. This year, they celebrated 63 years of marriage—a milestone marked by devotion, partnership, and deep love.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Lou Richardson; daughters Dianna Richardson of Corning and Laura (Bobby) Shipman of Jonesboro; sister June (James) Keel of Paragould; sister-in-law Dorothy Brady of Pineville, LA; grandchildren Rhonda (Joshua) McKinley, Jacob Simpson, Bobby (Katie) Shipman III, Anna (Grant) Jones, and Wil (Sarah) Shipman; great-grandchildren Caleb, Aaron, Malachi and Benjamin McKinley, Bobby IV, Sabre, Penelope “Poppy” Shipman, and Liam Shipman; nephew Billy (Becky) Brady; niece Beth (Paul) Pittman; longtime friend and business partner John Hastings; and a host of extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sarah Ann Richardson; his parents, Jake and Virgie (VanNada) Richardson; and his parents-in-law, Roy and Ruth (Nettles) Brady.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Ermert Funeral Home in Corning. Funeral services will take place Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, with Bro. Eddie Gene Wright and Bro. Bryan McDade officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Pollard.
Online condolences may be left at www.ermertfuneralhome.com.
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