Donald Richards Sr. was born in Fordsville, Kentucky on March 18, 1947 and was a proud graduate of Daviess County High School. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, a chapter of his life he carried with quiet pride. After returning home, Donald spent many dedicated years working at Commonwealth Rolled Products. Even after retirement, he wasn’t one to sit still for long and later worked as a substitute janitor for the Hancock County School System, where his friendly nature and steady presence were appreciated by many.  Donald was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and a member of Knights of Columbus.

Donald found joy in life’s simple pleasures — spending time with his grandchildren, sneaking late-night snacks, cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats, and watching a good old Western. He had a natural sense of humor and loved to joke around. If he teased you or gave you a hard time, it usually meant he liked you — that was just his way of showing affection.

He was a devoted father to Donnie (Stacy) Richards and Kristen (Jordan) McCormick, and he took immense pride in his great-grandchildren, Ellie, Jett, and Jackson, who brought him endless happiness and many smiles.

Donald was preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Hendricks; his father, Jewell Richards; his brother, Tony Richards; and his daughter, Jennifer Hodges. He will be remembered for his work ethic, his humor, and the love he had for his family — a legacy that will live on in the stories and memories shared by those who knew him best.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 am on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Gibson & Son Funeral Home, Hawesville Chapel with burial following in Mt. Calvary Cemetery with full military honors.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 3 pm until 6 pm and on Thursday from 9 am until service time at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hancock County V.F.W. Post # 5186.  Share your memories and condolences with his family at www.gibsonandsonfh.com.