*Carson, CA. – A memorial service was held February 25, 2016 to celebrate the life of Brady Lee Richardson Jr. who passed away on February 10th.
The service took place at Carson Christian Center where church Pastors Henry and Katie Yandall officiated. It was a standing-room-only, beautiful, spirited, emotional and sometimes even humorous home-going celebration of a life well lived and loved by so many.
Affectionately known as “Rick” or “Ricky,” Brady was born September 9, 1958 in Detroit, Michigan. The eldest of three children, he spent his early years traveling throughout the United States and even to Japan while his father served in the U.S. Air Force. His family settled in California in 1972.
Brady graduated from San Bernardino’s San Gorgonia High School where he was a member of the football, basketball and track & field teams. He earned his Associate of Arts degree from San Jose City College, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business and Accounting at California State University, Dominguez Hills. There he remained a permanent resident of Carson, California. Brady later attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he received his Masters of Business and Administration (MBA), with an emphasis in Entrepreneurial Development in 1989.
Brady worked many jobs before founding his own business – “Richardson Consultants” – in the early 1990’s. As a tax preparer and financial consultant his vast clientele included several professional athletes. He was also part owner of a Fatburger restaurant franchise in Detroit.
Brady’s other love was music which was a constant in his home growing up. He played drums and toured with a band that did quite well on the circuit. He produced a CD for R&B singer Tim Owens, and another for jazz flautist Valerie King. He played drums at his church home, Carson Christian Center, up until the time of his passing.
During the service after the many heartfelt tributes and reflections, Brady’s father Brady Sr. (in a rich baritone voice), did a moving spoken word recital of the gospel song “If God Is Dead” as Brady’s brother Michael accompanied him on trumpet.
The church’s praise team closed with the song “Limitless” the lyrics of which Brady at one time had asked for in dedication to his five sons; all of whom he adored. He was a dedicated father and husband.
Brady leaves to cherish his memory his children – Nigel, Brady III, Miles, Mackenzie and Matthew; his wife Michelle; his parents Brady Sr. and Lillie; his siblings Michael and Kim; his aunt Vernajean Thomas, and a host of other relatives, friends and colleagues.
Condolences may be sent care of Carson Christian Center, 18101 S. Avalon Blvd., Carson, CA 90746
