Willie “Gene” Richardson, 69, of Rock Island, passed away Thursday August 27, 2026 at his home. 

Visitation will be from 9:00am to 11:00am Saturday September 5th at the Knox Chapel of Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home, 2016 7th Avenue, Rock Island. Burial will follow in Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island. 

Gene was born on June 6, 1957 in Baldwin, Mississippi, the son of Lonnie and Ella Mae (Young) Richardson. He retired from Friendship Manor, Rock Island. Gene was a loving father and grandfather. He loved fishing, cooking and gardening. 

He is survived by his children, Thomas Hughes, Terrell Akers , Terresha Akers, Timothy (Destini )Richardson, Tanjela Richardson, TamAlita Randle, several grandchildren, great grandchildren,brother;James (Paquita) Richardson; sister, Jackie Richardson; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. A special acknowledgment is given to his niece Deb Sales, whose love, care, and unwavering presence meant so much to him and his children. 

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie and Ella Mae; brothers, Lester Richardson, Lonnie Richardson, Lawrence Richardson, LeRoy Richardson, Charles Richardson, Herbert Richardson, Lee Richardson, sisters; Annie Clark, Ann Foulks and Tarlie McKinney.