Greg Richards
Alton | Save
Greg Allen Richards was born on October 17, 1961, in Alton, Illinois, to Carl Allen and Joyce Kathleen (Arnold) Richards. He passed away unexpectedly on October 23, 2026, at the age of 65.
The youngest of three children and the son of a preacher, Greg had a mischievous streak from the very beginning - one that never quite disappeared, even into adulthood. He loved to joke, laugh, tease, and give those around him a hard time, always with a twinkle in his eye. To Greg, age was just a number, and he often declared that he would never grow old.
Greg met the love of his life, Tammy Bandy, while they were both working at McDonald’s, where he was a manager. On April 10, 1987, they were married, beginning a journey that would span 39 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised two daughters, Bethany and Emily. Greg loved his family fiercely, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for those he loved. Less than a year ago, he welcomed his granddaughter, Elodie, into the world, and she quickly became his pride and joy.
Greg was known for his incredible work ethic and dedication in everything he did. Throughout his life, he held a variety of roles, from managing restaurants to selling cars and boats, before beginning a 20-year career with Procter & Gamble. Starting as a line technician, Greg worked his way through the ranks, earning the respect of those around him. By the time he retired, he served as a Safety Leader. No matter the job or responsibility, Greg took pride in his work and gave it his all.
Greg came to know Christ at an early age, and his faith was the foundation of his life. He sought to honor God not only through his involvement in church and ministry, but also through the way he lived each day. Greg had a servant’s heart. He was the kind of man who saw a need and stepped in to meet it, often quietly and behind the scenes, without ever being asked. Whether it was a construction project, mowing someone’s yard, or simply lending a helping hand, he gave freely of his time and talents without seeking recognition. He served God faithfully and loved people well. Through his acts of service, his unmistakable smile, and his contagious laughter, Greg left a lasting impact on the lives of those around him.
Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Joyce Richards; his in-laws, Claude and Martha Bandy and Jimmy and Pauline Wells; his sister, Debbie Kanofsky; and his brother-in-law, Carl Bandy.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Tammy Richards (Bandy); his daughters, Bethany (Josh) Case of Edwardsville, Illinois, and Emily Richards of Jacksonville, North Carolina; his cherished granddaughter, Elodie Case of Edwardsville, Illinois; his sister, Sally (George) Coleman of St. Charles, Missouri; his honorary sister, Diana Bouillon of Alton, Illinois; his sister-in-law, Barbara (Jim) Wright of Edwardsville, Illinois; his brother-in-law, Jimmy Doty of Illinois; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and loved ones who will carry his memory with them.
Greg’s time on earth ended far sooner than anyone could have imagined, but the impact of his life will be felt for generations to come. He never sought recognition for the things he did or the lives he touched. He simply loved God, loved his family, and loved others through his words and actions. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy will live on through every act of kindness, every shared laugh, and every life made better because he was part of it. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is home with his Savior, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, from 10:00 am until the funeral service at 11:00 am, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto with the service will be officiated by Pastor Chip Faulkner. Burial will follow at Lake View Cemetery in Fairview Heights, IL.
Memorials may be made to the Tapestry of Love Ministries.
Online condolences and the guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
