John David Richards, III, son of John and Dianne Richards, Jr., passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at the age of 51. He was a graduate of Highland High School, the University of Utah, and the University of New Hampshire - Franklin Law Center. John was a man of faith, fortitude, and fun. A life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, John served a mission in Osaka, Japan. He later returned to Japan to study, and it was then he met his future wife, Lisa. His example of how he lived his life influenced her decision to become a member of the church. On May 13, 1995, they were married and sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. These experiences became the impetus of a deep-rooted love for the Japanese language and culture, manifested by frequent trips to Japan and an impressive collection of samurai swords.
John could find joy even in life’s most challenging times, and he could make an ordinary moment become a unique adventure. He loved fishing (although he wasn’t very good at it), boating (He had just learned to throw in the rope while surfing!), spending time at the Bear Lake cabin, playing the guitar (He had too many to count!), collecting jeeps, and keeping up with the latest styles (especially if Paul McCartney wore it, too). Not only did John pursue his passions fervently, he also wanted others to experience them. He generously took people to concerts, boating, and trips so that they could feel the joy he felt. He was a child at heart, evidenced by his remote control cars, dedication to learning new magic tricks (even the hard ones), possession of the same gun as James Bond, affinity for Coke gummies, and love for all things Star Wars and Harry Potter. He adored the Beatles, and his children had all of Paul McCartney’s songs memorized before they knew the alphabet. He dreamed of being a rock star and was affectionately known as “Rockin’ John.”
John was an example of pure Christ-like love, sacrifice, and service to others. He was a dedicated husband and father, always seeking to care for his family, friends, and employees. He founded Richards Law and grew it to a highly successful law firm, consistently using his talents and mortal blessings to bless the lives of others. He cherished his name and the great men from which it came. He loved his wife and children with a pure, unconditional, fierce love that permeates tangibly in each of them, and within them his example and legacy lives on.
John is survived by his wife Lisa Richards; his four children John IV (Lauren), Will, Sarah, and Savannah; his parents John and Dianne Richards, Jr.; and his siblings Melinda (David) McMaster, Daniel (LaLona) Richards, Andrew (Loni) Richards, and Paul (Sarah) Richards.
Friends may call Tuesday, August 17th from 6:00-8:00 PM and Wednesday, August 18th from 10:00-10:45 AM at the Holladay South Stake Center, 4917 S. Viewmont St., Holladay. Funeral services (same location) will be Wednesday at 11:00 AM. The dedication will follow at Memorial Holladay Cemetery, 4900 S. Memory Ln., Holladay
Lisa and your kids, I want you to know I worked for John, his Father and Grandfather. John was the best boss, friend I every had. John was nice to everyone. He has been my friend for many years and I and very grateful to have had him in my life. Lisa I know how very hard this is on your family and I pray that God will help you through this very hard time. All my love to you.
Sandy Walsh
A fantastic family! Sorry for this loss. Loved this well written obituary and reading about John’s turning ordinary moments into unique adventures. John was always very kind to me… I enjoyed and appreciated his unassuming way and presence.
I'm sorry to hear about John's passing. He was my best friend as a young child before my family moved away to Hawaii. I visited him during the summers as a teenager. Although we didn't have much contact as adults, he has always held a place in my heart, and I have cherished the memories. Much love to his family. May you feel God's peace and love!
We are really sad to know Richards's sudden passing away. When we visited Salt Lake City in 2019, he entertained us with huge generosities and kindness. His love for Japan was so impressive and warm that our anxieties to stay in foreign country melt away immediately. As we truly appreciated for his hospitality , we all were looking forward to seeing him in Japan to reward his kindness.
Our sadness is beyond description, but we would like to pray that his soul may rest in peace. We give our deepest sympathies to his family.
Yuki Ashina, Susumu Tsukui, Toshihiko Watanabe, Kentaro Imada, Yusuke Kanda, Maiko Kudo
My association with John and his family came at his passing through Mindy, his sister. I am deeply saddened and feel that his passing is one of those infuriating injustices but, I also know, that tragedy has a way of bringing out the sweetness in relationships and turns us heavenward in deep abiding faith. May you feel Heavenly Father’s arms unfurling round you.