Fred Steven Richardson's Obituary
After a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer, Fred Richardson, of Unionville, Missouri, passed away at his home on January 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Fred Steven Richardson was born on October 23, 1952, in Kirksville, Missouri, to William J. "Bill" and Doris Delea (Veach) Richardson. He attended Douglas Country School and graduated from Unionville High School in 1970. Shortly after high school, Fred began working with Donald Veirs before later joining Boone Construction Company. He went on to establish Richardson Construction with his brother Bob, building homes and performing concrete work throughout the area. Before retiring, he operated Richardson Excavation LLC. In addition to construction, Fred spent many years farming, raising cattle, and driving a semi, all of which he pursued with pride, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Fred married Terri McCreary in 1972, and together they welcomed two children, BJ (Bobby Joe) and Brittany, who remained a constant source of pride and joy throughout his life. On November 18, 1983, Fred married Marsha (McCormack) Brundage, affectionately known to him as "Bertha," in Unionville, Missouri. Their marriage was grounded in devotion, shared adventure, and a deep appreciation for home. From Lemons to Lake Thunderhead, and ultimately back to the Richardson family farm west of Unionville, Fred and Marsha built a life defined by hard work, laughter, and lasting memories. The farm was more than a place to live. It was their home, their refuge, and the place they were always meant to return to.
Fred and Marsha shared a love of travel and time spent together. They enjoyed riding their Harley-Davidson motorcycles and seeing the countryside. For several winters, they made their way to Florida and Texas, where Fred appreciated the warmer weather, good company, and long days on the golf course. More than any destination, however, Fred treasured being with his family. He looked forward to large family reunions, where music played, card games lasted late into the evening, and laughter and fun echoed across the room. Those gatherings, filled with familiar faces and shared stories, were among his greatest joys. Fred took deep pride in attending his grandchildren's activities and was happiest when the family was together. Fred "Slim Shady" Richardson enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to play poker, often taking their money. A devoted sports fan, he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the St. Louis Cardinals and the Missouri Tigers.
In addition to Marsha, Fred is survived by his children BJ Richardson of Springfield, Missouri; Brittany Shaffer (Michael Hall) of Moscow Mills, Missouri; Brenda (Chris) Fowler of Blue Springs, Missouri; and Reggie (Britney) Brundage of Unionville, Missouri. Fred's grandchildren are Abby Shaffer, Emma Shaffer, Tyson Alexander, Taylor (Lucia) Alexander, Bailey Fowler (Justin Pribyl), Torqe Brundage, Reise Brundage and Traylen Brundage and great-grandchildren Paislee Alexander and Ellie Lovewell. Fred is also survived by his siblings: Billie (John) Ryals of Unionville, Missouri; Kirk (Lynn) Richardson of St. Charles, Missouri; Sara (Danny) Veirs of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Cathy Spotts of Columbia, Missouri; and Bob Richardson of Unionville, Missouri. Additional survivors include his brother-in-law Dwaine (Paula) McCormack; sisters-in-law Julie Maring and Patti (Kevin) Alexander; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, and his brother-in-law, David Spotts.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 1:30 pm at Thomas Funeral Home in Unionville, Missouri. There will not be a visitation. Interment will be held at Lemons Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Lemons Cemetery or Martinstown School Community Building.
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