Donnie Cecil Richards was born June 27, 1946, to Cecil and Robbie Ethlene Richards.

An excellent athlete, Donnie played baseball, football, and basketball at Cleveland High School in Cleveland, Alabama, where he graduated in 1964. Donnie served in the National Guard after graduation.

He was later employed through the local plumbers and steamfitters union 498 of Gadsden, Alabama. He also worked at Fort Gordon Army base in Augusta as a fire protection inspector until he retired.

An avid Auburn fan and golfer, Donnie also enjoyed officiating baseball and football for many years, even after retirement. More than anything else, he was proudest of his four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother Leo. He is survived by Janet Richards, his wife; his sons David (Dianne) and Shane (Cheryl); his three grandsons Cole (Kelcey), Peyton, and Carson, and his granddaughter, McCayla; his nephews Chuck (Emily), Daniel (Amanda), Andrew (Jenna), and Corey (Jessica); as well as several great nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Blount County/Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel 17885 State Hwy 160 Cleveland, Alabama 35049 Friday, December 30th, 2022 from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm. Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 30th, 2022 at 2:00 pm in The Blount County/Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel.

Blount County/Cleveland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.