ALFRED STATION-George H. “Joe” Richardson, 66, of 451 Pleasant Valley Road, Alfred Station died unexpectedly Thursday morning (December 9, 2021) at his home. He was a resident of St Petersburg, FL.
Born in Bangor, ME on February 7, 1955 and was the son of George Richardson and Carolyn “Pat” (O’Connor) Richardson.
Joe grew up in Hornell and later resided in Treasure Island, FL for several years. He returned to Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1973). He was a member of the Hornell Red Raider Swim Team and also a member of the of the school band.
He was hired at Alfred State College in 1980 in the Building Trades Department. While working at Alfred State College, he earned his Associates Degree from Empire College. He was a full time Professor and was later promoted to Chair and also served as the Dean of Alfred State College, Wellsville Division. He retired after 37 years of service. Joe was an extraordinarily skilled carpenter and cabinetmaker. He designed custom pieces for many members of the community and in his own homes.
Joe was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Hornell, where he was as an altar server. He was a member of the G. Carducci Lodge Sons of Italy in Hornell and the Italian American Society of St Petersburg.
Having a passion for the water and water activities, Joe would often be found swimming laps at the YMCA. He was a certified scuba diving instructor and taught diving classes at Alfred State College. As a master certified diver, Joe enjoyed diving in the ocean and in the Finger Lakes. He also served as a swim official for local swim meets for many years.
Joe enjoyed sports and especially loved rooting for the New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays and the Buffalo Bills. He also enjoyed college basketball and football and was a Syracuse, Florida State & Clemson fan.
Having many hobbies, Joe enjoyed gardening, especially growing garlic and peppers. He loved the craft of wine making and sharing a glass with friends. Joe had a passion for music, he played the saxophone and acoustic guitar, and he enjoyed live music and attending concerts. He loved to help his community and would often volunteer at the Tampa Bay Watch.
Joe was married on August 2, 1980 to the former René Porcaro who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Julie (Philip) Rubin of Tallahassee, FL and Jill (Craig) Reeves of Hanahan, SC; one brother, Steve Richardson of Brockport, NY; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, & cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George & Carolyn.
The family of George H. “Joe” Richardson will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church.
The Funeral Mass for Joe will be streamed live and can be viewed on the Dagon Funeral Home Facebook page on Friday at 10:00 AM by visiting www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome. The video will remain available for viewing on our Facebook page for 30 days.
Due to recent New York State mandates, everyone will be required to wear a facemask at the Dagon Funeral Home and at St. Ann’s Church. Your cooperation is appreciated!
Joe’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to either the Hornell YMCA, 18 Center St., Hornell, NY 14843 or St. Ann’s Academy, 41 Genesee St., Hornell, NY. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
