Jake Richards

Dalton “Jake” Richards, age 23, of Athens, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2020.

Jake was born on August 19, 1996, in Springfield, IL the son of David Richards and Pamela Wells–Richards.

Jake is survived by his daughter Ryleigh Ann Richards, his father David (Michelle) Richards, his mother Pamela Wells-Richards, his brothers Phillip (Jessica) Cockrell, Jared and Jack Richards, his sister Kylie Naylor and his step-brothers Joshua (Brittany) French and Kyle Johnson and his step-sister Meghan Johnson, his grandmother Janet Wells and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his Grandparents Wayne Wells and Larry and Carolyn Richards.

Jake mostly worked in food service but was always willing to help a friend in need.  He loved animals and once rescued a baby squirrel which he and Ryleigh named Dog so that when they got a dog, they could name it Squirrel.

Jake’s hobbies included spending his time with the love of his life, his daughter-Ryleigh. They enjoyed going fishing and swimming in the lake, going to the park, riding bikes and going out to eat.  Jake was an outstanding artist and loved to draw pictures for his family and friends.

A private graveside service has been accorded.

In lieu of flowers, there is a custodial account set up at Alliance Community Bank at 217-636-8214 in the name of Ryleigh Ann Richards.