Marvin Lee Richardson

Marvin Lee Richardson, a man of intense loyalty and unwavering dedication to his family, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on September 9, 1936, in Cedervale, New Mexico, Marvin was the son of a dry pinto bean farmer. His early life was shaped by the hard work and resilience of his family, living for a time in Delta, Colorado, before returning to New Mexico. In the eighth grade, his family settled in Greenwood, Arkansas, a town that would forever shape his future. It was at Greenwood High School that he met the love of his life, Mary Lena Stewart. Their high school romance blossomed into a remarkable 67-year marriage, beginning on June 7, 1958.

Marvin was a proud graduate of the University of Arkansas, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. His professional life was a testament to his loyalty; he began his career with Phillips Petroleum immediately after graduation and remained with the company for 36 years until his retirement. Never hesitating to go where Phillips needed him, Marvin’s career took him and his beloved family on adventures across the country and the world, with posts in Borger, Texas; Great Yarmouth, England; Bartlesville, Oklahoma; and Denver, Colorado. Throughout their lives, Marvin and Mary made lifelong friends and created cherished memories for their children. One friendship that has stood the test of time is that of Sharon, Bill, and the entire extended Griffin family.

Above all, Marvin believed that a good life was a life of service—to his family, his friends, and his church. He was a profoundly devoted husband who loved his wife, Mary, deeply and always wanted her to live her best life. His steady presence and steadfast character were the cornerstones of his family. He could also fix just about anything. With his willing attitude and awesome tool collection he was always in high demand with family and friends.

Marvin was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Guy and Nettie Richardson, and his brother, Bill Richardson, who passed away just two months prior.

He leaves behind a loving legacy, survived by his devoted wife, Mary Lena Richardson; his three children and their spouses: Susan and David Ivanhoe, Stewart and Mariea Richardson, Todd Richardson and Paula Connely; four cherished grandchildren; and five adored great grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Mat Gonzalez, Dusten Hale, Elliot Gonzalez, John David Terry, Dennis Griffin and Joe Griffin. Honorable pallbearers will be Lance Richardson, Curtis Richardson, Troy Ivanhoe, and Bill Griffin.

Funeral service will be 12 p.m., Friday, June 20 at Asbury Church, 10 West Denver, Greenwood, AR 72936 with burial at Greenwood Memorial Cemetery under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. Viewing will be Thursday from 3 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home, where the family will visit with friends from 5 – 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Greenwood Memorial Cemetery, PO 2571, Greenwood, AR, 72936.