Obituary: Harold Bernard Richardson

February 21, 1934-July 7, 2021

Harold Bernard Richardson, Sr.

Harold Bernard Richardson, Sr., affectionately known to all that loved him as Popo, passed away on July 7, 2021 after a long battle with dementia. Popo was born on February 21, 1934 in New York City, raised in Baltimore, Maryland and was a 1952 graduate of Frederick Douglass High School in Baltimore. He joined the U.S. Air Force following school. Upon his return, during a brief attendance at Morgan State College, he met the love of his life and future wife, Beatrino Delaney. They were married in November 1958. Popo worked briefly as a Baltimore City police officer, and a caterer before beginning his career as an Air Traffic Controller with the Federal Aviation Administration. Initially working at Dulles International Airport, Popo was offered a life-changing opportunity to further his career on the other side of the country in Alaska. From 1967-1971 Popo lived and worked in several small villages before accepting a position as the Air Traffic Control Chief in Northway, Alaska. He then took a lateral transfer to Cordova, Alaska in 1975. For 15 years Popo led his air traffic control stations by example, while also making a huge community impact, as well as history with the Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks, where he was elected as the first African American Exalted Ruler in 1981. Friends and colleagues often commented on Popo’s infectious laugh as well as his amazing whistling skills. His spirit radiated throughout his entire career and each community we lived.

After 25 years with the Federal government, Popo and Bea moved to Sequim, WA to begin their retirement in 1989. They spent their time playing golf, traveling and enjoying friends. His loving blue eyes and jovial laugh will never be forgotten.

Popo was preceded in death by his wife, Beatrino Delaney Richardson. He is survived by his four children, Harold B. Richardson, Jr. “Bink”, Tracey M. Laurion (husband – David Laurion), Todd Drashner and Heidi A. Richardson. He is also loved and celebrated by his eight grandchildren Nichelle S. Ness (husband – Josh Ness), Devon J. Richardson, Deonn L. Richardson, MacKenzie N. Deissner (husband – Brandon Deissner), Sarah Laurion, Sydney B. Laurion, Bryce A. Gordon, Brooke E. Gordon and two great-grandchildren Aylin Ness and Quinn D. Deissner.

Advertisement