Robert V. Richardson III, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Midlothian, Virginia, on February 6, 2026, at the age of 81. Known as Robbie to close friends and family, he left behind a legacy of love, mentorship, and community involvement.
Born in Hampton, Virginia, to Barbara and Vollie Richardson, Robert grew up alongside his brother, Jimmy. Their childhood was filled with summers spent at the family cottage at Grand View beach, where they cherished unforgettable moments. He graduated from Christchurch School, receiving the prestigious Bishop’s Award, before attending the College of William and Mary.
After serving in the Vietnam War with the U.S. Army, Robert continued his education at Richmond Polytechnic Institute, now known as Virginia Commonwealth University. He married his wife, Martha Richardson, with whom he shared 53 years of marriage. Together, they raised their children, Mark and Sarah, in Poquoson, Virginia, where they lived for over two decades. Robert took great pride in building their family home on Lyons Creek, creating a place for countless family gatherings and water activities.
Robert was a successful custom home builder and owned a general contracting business in the Tidewater area for two decades. In the latter part of his career, he transitioned to a role as a program manager at Capital One, where he earned his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and an Advanced Project Management Certification from Stanford University. He eventually retired from Wells Fargo, leaving behind a strong impact as a mentor and advocate for many project managers during his corporate journey.
His family remembers him not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his passions. Robert enjoyed travel, boating, fishing, and woodworking, and was an enthusiastic supporter of the New York Yankees. His sense of humor remained vibrant throughout his life, and he is deeply missed by his family and friends.
Robert is survived by his wife, Martha; his children, Mark and Sarah; son-in-law Chris Harrison; daughter-in-law Mara Richardson; and grandchildren Baker and Tucker Harrison, and Wilder and Annette Richardson. He also leaves behind his brother, along with sisters-in-law Lynn Richardson and Mary Ellen Kestel.
In lieu of flowers, Robert requested that those wishing to honor his memory consider donating to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. More information can be found at their website: https://bit.ly/Robert-PFF.
Robert V. Richardson III will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his professional excellence, and his generous spirit. His influence will continue to resonate in the lives of those he touched.