William Steven Richards, affectionately known as Billy, was the first of five children born to Barbara and Bill Richards in Jamaica, New York, born on Jan. 20, 1956.

There were three boys Billy, Lloyd, Donald (preceded Bill) and two girls Jo Ann and Lisa. The Richards belonged to St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in Queens, New York.

Billy was fondly referred to as being astute and liked by many. He was a lover of sports, music, martial arts, and excelled at basketball at a young age.

William lived in Santa Maria with his beautiful lifetime partner Sherry Richards, and their son and daughter Jared and Farrin Richards.

William spent most of his youth living in Far Rockaway, New York, and lived in various places while in the Air Force, until he moved to Santa Maria in 1980. He graduated from Far Rockaway High School in 1974 and attended Chapman University, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in computer science in 1984.

William joined the Air Force in 1975 and served his country proudly for many years. After his service, he worked with computers at Vandenberg Air Force Base until he later retired to pursue his education further. Continuing his education, he received multiple credits at Allan Hancock College until he received his real estate license.

He was a beloved cyclist and instructed at the local gym, along with being an avid golfer.

He is survived by his children Jared Richards and partner Nanae Dominguez of San Diego, Farrin Richards and partner Kim Tan of Lancaster, California; siblings Lloyd Richards of Orlando, Florida, Lisa and Micheal Fuch of Long Beach, New York, and Joann Richards of Jamaica, New York; his Aunt Peggy of Queens, New York; sisters-in-law Teresa Butt of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Cynthia and Joe Jiles of Santa Maria; and brother-in-law Thomas Butt of Lompoc.

He was 64 years old when he passed on Aug. 13, 2020 at Marian Medical Center after his long battle with cancer. He leaves behind a host of many cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends who loved him dearly. He was a son, father, brother and friend, and he will be remembered always.

To leave a condolence for the family visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com.