On the eve of July 17, 2023, Joseph Richmond passed away peacefully in his home with his wife, Jane, of 55 years, by his side. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, English teacher, soccer coach, and basketball coach. He was 75 years old.
Born on May 17, 1948, in San Francisco, CA, Joe touched many lives, not only family members, but also his students and colleagues at Napa High School and Independent Studies.
He is survived by his wife, Jane; his son, Jason and wife Anne; his four grandchildren: Allyson and husband, Jaime, Jennah, Alec, and Jacob. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Camille Morehen and husband, Ron (Camille's son, Michael Beal, his wife Leslie, and son, Wyatt), Maverick Salangsang and wife, Jackie, Johanna Salangsang and husband, Dustin Foster, and their kids: Liam and Koen, Braz Salangsang and wife, Tiffany, and their kids: Leila, and Wolfgang, Sean Richmond and his kids: Reese and Nicholas. And sister in-law, Maja Salangsang and her husband, Dave, and Vicki Lee, wife of Joe's late brother, David Richmond.
As a husband, he and Jane spent many summers on the island of Maui, their most favorite place. He loved scuba diving and taking Jane to music concerts. Their bond was immeasurable. Not only did they love to travel but loved enjoying each other over an amazing plate of food. They first met in junior high, which was the beginning of their wonderful journey.
As a father he and his son, Jason spent many of time talking about sports, which they both have a love for. His grandkids were his pride and joy. They always brought a smile to his face and a pep in his step. Whether he was playing tea party or having a serious talk with them about careers, "Jampa Joe" was always tentative to their needs.
Beyond his role within his family, Joe was a passionate educator. He first began teaching at Napa High School in 1973. He greeted every student outside the classroom every day and then many of the time found him engaged in conversation with his class sitting on his desk. Along with teaching he also served as a soccer and basketball coach. He helped start the girls' soccer program and was instrumental in creating the M.E.L. Girls Soccer league.
Joe's culinary skills were legendary among his friends and family. He was a self-taught home chef that ranged from backyard barbeque to jambalaya and etouffee. Joe and Jane hosted many family gatherings at their home. It didn't matter what it was, the end result was always the same, smiling faces and full bellies. He also loved to bake, and his grandkid's favorite was his chocolate pot de creme.
Joe impacted many lives throughout his lifetime. He will be remembered for his compassion, kindness, and love of life. His legacy will endure through his family and those he touched.
A reception to celebrate Joe's life will be September 8, 2023, from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m., at the reception hall at Tulocay Cemetery at 411 Coombsville Rd, Napa, CA .94558.
Hawaiian attire in honor of Joe's aloha spirit.
Ho'omaluhia
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