Philip E. Richardson, 95 of Akron, passed away peacefully on Saturday (May 17, 2025) at home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born September 30, 1929 in Sodus, NY, a son of the late Claude and Evelyn Jacot Richardson.
Philip was drawn to a neighboring farm at a very young age so when his own family moved to Geneseo he stayed in Lyons with that farm family until he was in eighth grade. It was on that farm in those early years where his interest in agriculture was cultivated and it lasted a lifetime. He was a graduate of Geneseo High School and continued his agriculture studies at Alfred State, working his way through college in a program requiring work study on farms between semesters. One of those farms was in Town Line, NY, where he met his future wife at a local square dance. He and Arlene Aldinger would marry in June 1954, after which he was drafted into the US Army. Upon his return from service in Germany in 1956, they would have an opportunity to purchase their own farm from the Nice family on South Newstead Road in Akron. It was on this land that Philip and Arlene would develop Ja-Rich Farm.
Philip was a progressive farmer, embracing new technology and improvements, including building one of the first milking parlors in the county and investing in registered Holstein cattle to improve the genetics of their herd. Ja-Rich Farm was recognized many times throughout the years for the herds’ accomplishments.
He and Arlene were very involved in the community. He was a member of the Akron First United Methodist Church, NY Farm Bureau, NY Holstein Association. He served on the Bank of Akron Board of Directors, Erie County Fair Board and Erie County Farm Service Agency Committee and he was a former 4-H leader.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Arlene Aldinger Richardson of Akron. Son, James Richardson of Akron. Daughter, Janice (John) Barrett of Avon. Grandchildren, Grace (Carl) Richardson-Hume, Janey (Kevin) Keenan, and Jolene (Sam) Rugg. Great-grandchildren, Madelynn and Kellen Keenan, Eve Richardson and Nora Rugg. Siblings, Betty Lou Barber, Gail (Tom) Walder and Judy Richardson. Nieces and nephews also survive.
He was predeceased by a daughter, Jane Tschachtli, grandson-in-law Steven Richardson and seven brothers and sisters.
Family and friends are invited to share in a Memorial Service on Saturday, May 31st, 11:00 am at the Akron First United Methodist Church, 7 Church Street, Akron, NY. A time to visit with family and share of memories will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.
Memorial contributions in his name may be offered to Buffalo Hospice or the Akron First United Methodist Church. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.
ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 32 JOHN ST., AKRON, NY 14001. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.
