William Charles Richards, 83, of Salem, NH, passed away on Sunday morning, January 19th, 2025, at the Lawrence General Hospital.

Bill was born on November 1, 1941, to Rhea (Forsyth) and Jack Richards. He was raised in Clairton, PA, attended local schools, and went on to complete three years at Washington Jefferson College. Bill then enlisted and served in the United States Air Force.

Upon his return home, he married the love of his life, Linda (Grill) and the couple went on to raise their family in Salem, NH. There, he spent many joyous years making memories with his children and grandchildren, whom he loved more than anything.

Bill spent the majority of his career working for JEOL USA, Inc holding the titles of Engineer Training Manager and Health & Safety Manager.

He always had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, having spent many hours hunting and fishing with his father. The love of these hobbies continued throughout his life. Bill was very active within the Sts. Mary and Joseph Parish community including decades of service in RCIA as well as eucharistic ministry.  One of his true passions was his service with the Knights of Columbus both at the local and state levels. Bill was a past Grand Knight, Faithful Navigator, District Deputy, as well as holding various state offices.  He held this community close to his heart and considered them family.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Linda (Grill) Richards; his sister, Marlyn Sprowls of Seminole, FL; his brother, John Dale Richards; his son, Chris Richards and his wife Kerri of Salem, NH; his daughter, Amy Keleher and her husband Ryan of Salem, NH; his grandchildren, Sarah Richards, Jacob Richards, Courtney Richards, Andrew Keleher, and Kolby Keleher; his nieces and nephews; as well as many extended family members. He is preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Jim Sprowls.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 23rd from 4 to 7pm, at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Road, Windham, NH 03087. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday morning, at 11am, at St. Joseph Church, 33 Main Street, Salem, NH 03079. Internment at the NH State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH will take place in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

For directions or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com.