William J. Richardson was born on April 30, 1933 to his proud parents, Junius and Estelle Richardson in Windsor, Virginia. He was the third youngest of seven children.
Although he was raised in a small town, Bill always had grand dreams of success and life in the big city. He was the first member of his family to attend college. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Virginia State University.
Upon graduation, he followed his dreams and moved to New York where he worked in several jobs to support himself. During that time he met and fell in love with his soul mate Gertrude and they were married in 1954. After eleven wonderful years of marriage their union was blessed with the birth of their daughter, Traci Lynn.
Bill had an illustrious career in Corporate America. He always held the highest standards of professional integrity and civic leadership. His commitment to quality service qualified him to be named among the most talented and respected professional men in the country.
He held sales positions with Underwood Olivetti (notably, he was their first African-American sales professional), P. Ballantine & Son and Schaefer Brewing Company. In 1973 he joined Schieffelin Somerset as a Special Market Manager. His excellent performance in that position helped to yield considerable exposure for the company and its premium brands. His endeavors earned him many promotions within the company which led to his promotion to Vice President, Corporate Affairs in 1995.
In this position he was responsible for managing corporate activities and programs within the African-American communities across the country. He oversaw the company's philanthropic interests and implemented its community-based programs for a variety of national, regional and local organizations including the NAACP, National Urban League, the UNCF, Prince Hall Masons, YMCA, Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation, One Hundred Black Men, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, and the Links to name a few.
Known to many as a mentor and role model to young executives, he devoted his time encouraging and motivating them to be the very best in their chosen careers. Bill was a staunch supporter of education and devoted much of his time and resources to historical African-American colleges and universities. Among them are Bennett College, Howard University, Hampton University and Medgar Evers College.
Beloved throughout the community as well as in Masonry. He is sorely missed by all. May his memory live in our hearts!
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