On 1/25/24, Richard passed away at his home in East Tawas, that he shared with his companion/best friend of 30 years, June Hudgins. He was surrounded by his loving family and dog Bear. Richard was born in Bay City on 1/7/1943 to Emmett & Caroline Paradise . Richard was raised in Essexville and graduated from St John’s Catholic School in 1961. He proudly served for the United States Marine Corps from 1962-1966. During his military service, he met and married Paulette Henderson in Washington, DC on 6/19/65. After his service ended, they returned to Essexville where they raised their four children, Lorie Baker (Brian), Linda Byard (Richard’s best pal Larry), Richard Paradise (Maria), Lisa Paradise (Jane Ferguson).
While raising his family, Richard worked as an electrician at General Motors, Grey Iron Foundry. Upon retirement, he was able to focus on his love of woodworking, creating beautiful pieces for family and friends. At a young age, Richard was introduced to fishing by his Grandfather, which became his favorite past time. In 1984 he moved his family north so he could be closer to the lake.
In addition to June, Paulette, and his children, Richard is survived by his loving grandchildren, Brandon Baker (Amanda), Brianna Muldoon (Austin), Brian Baker Jr. (Dani), Travis Byard (Sarah), Gavin Byard, Lillian Paradise, Isabelle Paradise, Jake Poole, seven great-grand children, brothers Gary and Tim Paradise (Debbie), sister-in-laws Sue and Diane Paradise, many nieces and nephews, the Henderson Family in Mississippi and June’s loving children Donna Schneider (Eric), Loretta Buckmeier (Rick), John Buckmeier, Sharon Birand (Gerald), Brian Hudgins (Leah) and Paula Buckmeier
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jim Paradise (Diane) and sister-in-law Diane (Gary Paradise).
Richard is known to his northern friends as “Smooth” (a nickname he created for himself, as he claimed he was a smooth talker). More than anything, Richard loved his social life. He has created a void in our lives that can never be filled. He was the life of the party, providing his friends and family with never ending stories that we can all share at his Celebration of Life. Smooth did not want us to be sad, he wanted to leave us with smiles and laughter.
Per his wishes, Richard will be cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held in June (date TBD).
In lieu of flowers, those wanting to express their sympathy may consider donations to Semper Fi & Americas’ Fund (thefund.org).
