Can everyone repeat this? Thank you, Lord, for you, James, and us.

James Patrick Richardson was born on September 13, 1980, in Berkeley, California, to James E. Richardson and Patricia A. Richardson. He was the only child of this union. He was preceded in death by his brother, Donnie Richardson. He leaves behind his siblings, Viva Richardson, Cedric Richardson, and Sean Rihardson.

James built a wide and loving circle of friends, many of whom he affectionately called brothers, sisters, cousins, moms, dads, aunties, uncles, and children. He was known by many nicknames, including Bucko, Jish, Jisher, Jeez, Stanga, Jamie, Buzzard, and Gigalo.

James loved God and had a warm, generous spirit. He shared his love by bringing joy to others, making people smile, laugh, and feel welcome wherever he went. He thrived in the presence of others, especially at gatherings, parties, and barbecues, where his humor and lively personality shined. He was also known for requesting his favorite foods and drinks with a smile. A giving person at heart, James would often share what he had, even giving away his clothes and tennis shoes to those in need. He helped friends and family with odd jobs and was always willing to lend a hand. While he could hold onto his feelings when upset, he would reconcile in his own time. He conquered his trials and setbacks by praying, venting to parents and others. He was not embarrassed to express or hide what he was going through.

James had a playful side he was "married" to his cell phone, his collection of tennis shoes, and his beloved French Bulldog, Smoke. He was never shy about offering advice, whether asked or not, though he was known to follow his own path when it came to taking others' advice.

During his childhood, James attended Acts Full Gospel Church, Oakland, California, and occasionally attended services at his friend Sam Bryant's church. He visited with friends other Bay Area churches.

James attended several schools in Oakland, including San Leandro High School, and later graduated from Oakland Technical High School. Many of his present lifelong friendships were formed during school years (elementary, jr. high), neighborhood, and extended community. He continued his education at Chabot College, Hayward, and pursued a welding certificate at Laney College, Oakland.

James was active in sports and played football at San Leandro High School. He was a devoted fan of the Oakland A's, Raiders, and Warriors. As a pre-teen, he also attended the Barbizon Modeling Agency in San Francisco. He enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, including promoting events and parties, hosting cookouts, shopping, fishing, and traveling with family and friends.

Throughout his life, James held various jobs, including truck driver, forklift operator, warehouse worker, welder, grocery merchandise displayer, and inventory representative. He was a co-owner of SDU (Style Define U), a men's and women's clothing and accessory line.

James loved to travel for vacations, special occasions, business, and simply to reconnect with others. He was known for his memorable sayings, including: "HELLLLLOOO," "IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MONEY," "STRAIGHT UP," and "I NEED SOME MONEY MOM", when he was not working. He often expressed his love by telling his parents, "Mom and Dad, I love you”.

When visiting others, he would warmly greet the cooks with playful questions” When, "Did you make that juuuice?" "You made mac & cheese?" or "Did you make Lemon Pie or Peach Cobbler?"

His musical taste was diverse and soulful, including classics like "Float On" by The Floaters, Barry White, "September," "Mothership Connection" by Parliament, as well as Tupac, Rap, R&B, and many other artists.

He leaves with us soulful, fun, cherished memories of his love, laughter, and the childlike spirit within him.

We will always remember the immense, loving friendships he shared with all of you, including his parents and his soulmate, Kelly Anderson.

He is survived by aunts: Gloria Lambert Hector (David), Elk Grove, CA; Linda Lambert, Phoenix, AZ; Venita Norman (Curtis), Manteca, CA; Catherine Griffin, Seattle, WA, and Crystal Nelson (who preceded him in death), along with Patrice Rodgers (Joseph), Tracy, CA., uncles: Charles Lambert from Seattle, WA, and Arrous Lambert from Oakland, CA (deceased). His loving grandmother (deceased), Charlesetta Lambert from Seattle, WA, and great aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, his Godson Jy'eer, friends, and many other extended family members also remember him fondly.

The Lord has called His child home, and we trust in His divine plan. James's light will continue to shine through the love he shared.

His memory will forever remain in the hearts of the Richardson family, friends, relatives, and extended families.

Care has been entrusted to Grissom's Chapel and Mortuary.