Alfred Joe Richards, age 67

Alfred Joe Richards, age 67, of Alexander, Arkansas, left his earthly body on December 6, 2023.  He was born in Bessemer, Alabama, on March 6, 1956.

He was preceded in death by his father Alfred Lee Richards, mother Virgie Richards, sister Jackie Johnson, sister Cindy Richards, and brother Allen Richards.

Alfred Joe married Glenda Jean Richards on October 3, 1981.  They were blessed with a daughter and son-in-love, Jana, and Nathaniel Haggard, and 4 grandchildren, Abigail, Augustus, Alexandrea, and Arabella.

Also living on to honor his memory are Alfred Joe’s brother, Roy Richards, sister, Tanya Gann, as well as many nieces, nephews, and beloved family members and friends.

He was known to many by different names, and in different capacities.  As a child, he was AJ to friends and relatives.  He grew to be known as Alfred Joe by family and friends as an adult.  Professionally, Mr. Al was known as the #1 guy in the #2 business.

Perhaps, he is most well-known for his work in the church.  Bro. Al was not only an amazing preacher and musician, but he worked tirelessly to show his love for his church, and to serve his beloved friends and leaders, Pastor and Sis. Clifford.

To his family, he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.  He was a soul mate to his wife, Glenda, a cherished Daddy to his daughter and son, and to his grandkids, he was “Poppy,” the man who could do anything.  He could sing like an angel.  He seemed to know how to do everything, from working on our cars, to imitating all the voices of a story to make us laugh and make life more colorful.

Alfred Joe loved to take his family on camping trips and to Branson.  He loved to fish, and take everyone out on his boat.  He was an amazing photographer.  He enjoyed cowboy movies, horses, shopping at flea markets and thrift stores, and sitting around with his family singing and playing guitar.  He was a stylish man.  His grandchildren fondly remember him by all his hats and brick-a-brack in his room.  We cannot forget how he made the children smile.  They loved to have him play with their stuffed animals and he gave each one a name and a voice.  His laughter was contagious and we cherish each moment of his beautiful life that he shared with us.

Today he is present with the Lord, and we carry on his memory until we meet again.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 11:00am with a funeral service starting at 12:00pm at Christian Life Center; 12923 W. Markham St, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211. Burial to follow at Arkansas Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com