ASH GROVE, Mo. — David “Dave” Wendell Richardson,

63, of Ash Grove, Mo., left this world and entered the Kingdom of Heaven on February 7, 2023.

Throughout his life, Dave modeled grace and forgiveness like no other. He was always quick to lift people up and tell them how proud he was of them. His reflex was to always see the good in others and offer words of encouragement and affirmation.

Dave was dedicated to his family, especially to his wife of 39 years, Becky. They walked hand-in-hand through many seasons of life and always grew stronger in their love through their journey.

Perhaps his favorite role was that of “Grandad.” He was revered and deeply loved by all his grandchildren. Every grandchild thinks that they are his favorite, because each one was made to feel that way.

Wendell served the Lord fervently as a lay pastor at his church and men’s Bible studies. He was a devoted member of his church’s outreach and benevolent ministries, as well as serving his community and participating on international mission trips. He had a true love for others and always wanted to help those in need.

Dave was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer. He fought valiantly, without complaint, with his wife by his side. During that time, he made it his priority to spend every possible moment loving on his family. Ultimately, the cancer took his earthly body, but his eternal body is untarnished in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.

He was covered in love the last days of his life by his wife and family. As he was letting loose of his beaten-up earthly body over his last days, his house was filled with tears, laughter, prayers, and singing… but most of all, with the thing that characterized his life the greatest — love.

Dave is survived by his wife, Becky Richardson of Ash Grove, Mo.; six children, Rob Hesington, Brady Hesington, Scott Hesington, David Richardson, Brooke Phillips, and Melissa Plotz, and their spouses; 20 grandchildren and their spouses; seven great- grandchildren; his mother, Eva Pearson of Bentonville, Ark.; and sister, Janet Irwine and her husband; his brother, Tim Richardson; and several nieces and nephews. Dave was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Richardson, his brother, Brad Richardson; and grandson, Samuel Hesington.

A public funeral was held at 2 p.m., on Sunday, February 12, 2023, at Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home at 510 E Cherry St, Mt. Vernon, Mo., with a private family burial following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Halltown Baptist Church.

Online condolences may be shared at www.FossettMosherFuneralHome.com.