Obituary of Michael Eugene Richards

On Thursday, December 3, 2020, Michael E. Richards, loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend passed away at the age of 63.  He was born on February 1, 1957 in Moberly to Ron and Willa Jean Richards. His father preceded him in death. On June 16, 2018 he married the love of his life, Michelle Griffith Moss.

Mike was a lovable, gentle giant as most would say about him and he didn’t know a stranger.  He would go above and beyond for anyone.  He loved his wife, along with his daughters and son, grandchildren and great grandchildren, mom, siblings, nieces and nephews, and friends with his whole heart and being. He fought many battles over the last several years with his health and his unexpected departure this trip is shocking to us all. He loved life and made sure to give hugs, smiles, laughter, love to anyone around him.  Besides enjoying being a grandpa and great grandpa, one of his greatest moments was playing Santa Claus in Rothwell Park for the City of Moberly, for many years.  The children were always so amazed that he knew who they were when they sat on his lap...mostly because he knew their mom, dad, grandma and/or grandpa, as he knew many people. 

He was a member of West Park United Methodist Church.  He loved music; especially country, pretty women (until “my Chelle” stole his heart) and a good drink.  He’d want you to celebrate his life and reunion with the Lord, his Pop, Bru, Tommy, Don and others, by having a shot of Dr. McGillicuddy’s in whatever flavor you like.

Mike is survived by his wife, Michelle of the home; his daughter, Melissa (Tony) Wamsley of Moberly; step-children, Phillip Moss (fiancé, Miranda Long) of Cairo and Lauren Moss (fiancé, Tye Reynolds) of Huntsville; his grandchildren, Taylor (Scott), Cody, Tara (Noah), Camron (Kayla), Harper and Jason;  his great grandchildren, Blake, Bentleigh, Colten, Cilas, and Novah; his mother, Willa Jean; his siblings, Nick Richards, Jean Campbell and Ronda (Kevin) Stoecklein, nieces and nephews, several cousins and a multitude of friends.

A memorial service celebrating Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at West Park United Methodist Church, 1101 Myra Street, Moberly, MO.  Visitation will be held at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.  A private inurnment will be held at t a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016.