Barry Allan Richards, born on January 9, 1940, in Baltimore (Govans), Maryland, went to be with the Lord at the age of 85 on November 23, 2025 at the VA Hospital in Perryville. He was a beloved son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and member of the community, residing in Havre de Grace, Maryland for the past 47 years. Barry lived a fulfilling life, marked by his dedication to his family, faith, and passion for helping others.
After graduating from Baltimore Polytechnic High School then earning a Bachelor's Degree in mechanical engineering from University of Maryland College Park, Barry became a successful business owner in the electrical sales industry, where he built lasting relationships and connections throughout his career; the people were always more important than the sales numbers and he was always ready with a hug, no matter who you were or if you wanted it or not. His entrepreneurial spirit was only exceeded by his commitment to service. In 1991, he founded the Alcohol and Drug Addiction Ministry at Oak Grove Baptist Church, where he became a beacon of hope for many struggling individuals and families and he continued to serve the Lord in this capacity almost to the very end.
Barry was also a proud veteran who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era, exemplifying courage and dedication to his country. His faith was a central part of his life, and he was a devoted member of Oak Grove Baptist Church, where he made many cherished friends and actively participated in church activities.
An avid lover of Bluegrass music, Barry found joy in playing guitar and listening to the melodies that filled his heart. His warmth, humor, and loving nature will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Barry is survived by his two sons, John Richards (Bethany), and Matthew Richards, his grandchildren, Ashley (Ryan), Logan, Ryland (Michael), Lacey (Brian), Brennan, and Finn, and great-grandchildren Corbin Spencer Dukes, Jensen Dukes, Cole Shiloh, Grady Shiloh, Boyd Redon and Cyrus Redon, who carry on his legacy of kindness and compassion. Barry was preceded in death by: his wife of 50 years, Margaret "Peggy" Richards, his parents, James Richards and Grace Richards, his daughter, Alison McDonough, and his brother, Dennis Brooke Richards.
The family will receive friends and loved ones for a public viewing at Oak Grove Baptist Church on December 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM. A funeral service to honor Barry's life will follow, starting at 12:00 PM at the same location. All are welcome to attend to celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched the lives of many.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alcohol and Drug Addiction Ministry at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Barry's memory, continuing his mission to support those in need.
Barry Allan Richards will be remembered for his steadfast faith, commitment to service, and the love he shared with his family and community. May he rest in peace.