John Michael Richardson

John Michael Richardson, 49, of Neon, Kentucky passed peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Wednesday February 21, 2024 at Pikeville Medical Center, Pikeville, Kentucky.  John and Jennifer Richardson welcomed their first born, John Michael, on September 2, 1974 in Whitesburg, Kentucky.    

Thanks to his father, John, John Michael developed a passion for sports at a very young age.  He started playing at the age of 5 on his first t-ball team and continued throughout high school.   After his playing days, John Michael began volunteering his time to coach and teach several different sports to the youth in his area.  He coached baseball, football, basketball, and softball.  He loved being able to share his knowledge of sports, from being the play-by-play announcer on the radio to showing kids how to pitch, especially how to throw his famous "curveball."  He also had a love for collecting sports cards and memorabilia which amounted to an unbelievable collection.  His fantasy football teams have been very successful, winning the championship several years.  He loved his Fleming-Neon Pirates, Letcher County Central Cougars, Kentucky Wildcats, and Cincinnati Reds.  Music was a big part of his life and he enjoyed listening to songs and sharing with others, especially his kids.

John Michael was employed at ARH for several years before changing industries and becoming a coal miner, like his father.  

John Michael is survived by 4 children, the loves of his life.  Jaden (Preston) Maggard, Sarah Richardson, Lauren Richardson, and John Andrew Richardson.  He loved coaching their sports teams, watching them play ball, and teaching them life lessons.  John Michael was a very proud Pap to his two grandchildren, Livingston Jay Maggard and Sutton Tate Maggard who stole his heart.  Also surviving are his beloved parents, John and Jennifer Richardson.  Brothers, Justin and Josh Richardson.  Grandmother Joyce (Neal) Venters.  Nieces and Nephews Reagan, Reese, Parker and Jaci whom he loved like his own and a special extended family, the Wise-Duty's; Betty, Kevin, Caleb, Amber, Andy, and Addi along with a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing.

John Michael is preceded in death by paternal grandfather, John Richardson Jr., maternal grandparents John and Sarah McCown and special loved ones Nancy "Aggie" Wise-Duty and Johnny Wise.    

Celebration of Life: 7:00 O'clock P.M. Saturday, February 24, 2024 at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation: 5:00 P.M. Saturday at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel.