Jackie "Jack" Ray Richards, 85, of Linton, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday afternoon, January 16, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished.

Born in Linton on March 29, 1940, to Rolland and Norma Jean (Carrico) Richards, Jack lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and devotion to those he loved.

After graduating from college in Evansville, Jack found his calling as a machinist. His precision and craftsmanship were well-known. Over the years, he brought that talent to his work at General Electric in Linton, Peabody Coal Company, and Stringer Machine Shop in Dugger, where his steady hands and sharp mind helped create airplane and gun parts for the government. Never one to sit still, Jack also ran his own shop from home that supplied parts through Stringer's to NSWC Crane, a testament to his ingenuity and dedication.

Outside of work, Jack was happiest outdoors. Whether casting a line into a quiet lake or piloting a boat with his family aboard, he found joy and peace in the natural world. In his later years, nothing brightened his day more than time spent with his great-grandchildren, Emma and Avery, whose laughter brought new energy into his days. A man of faith, Jack was a longtime member of the Linton 12th Street Church of God.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 65 years, Patricia "Pat" (Fiscus) Richards; their daughter, Lanae (Tony) Mowery; sister, Luwanna Bland; two grandchildren, Brittani (Matt) Rehmel and Amanda (Jordan) Strange; and great-grandchildren, Emma and Avery Strange. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son, and his brother, Steve Richards.

Jack's life will be honored in a private burial at Stafford Cemetery. Arrangements are in care of Welch & Cornett Funeral Home in Linton of Walton Funeral Service.

The Richards family invites friends to share memories and condolences online at www.welchcornett.com.