W. Ray Richardson, Jr. (1971–2025)

We regret to share the passing of Ray Richardson on January 30, 2025.

Ray is survived by his wife of 25 years, Susan Spofford; his father, Wendell Richardson; his sister, Raquel Richardson; and a loving extended family of brothers- and sisters-in-law, along with seven beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Gale Richardson.

A Life Rooted in Golf and Service

Ray was born in Muncie, Indiana, to Wendell and Gale Richardson. His parents, both avid golfers, introduced him and his sister, Raquel, to the game at an early age. Wendell, a U.S. Marine and General Motors employee, and Gale, a dedicated public servant with over 40 years in government service under the Department of Agriculture, instilled in their children the values of hard work, sacrifice, and giving back. Ray often credited their example as his inspiration for mentoring professionals and growing the game of golf.

Beyond golf, Ray was an avid fisherman, waterman, and hunter, and when not outdoors, he could be found cheering on his beloved Indiana University Hoosiers.

A Career Dedicated to Golf

Ray’s journey in golf began in high school, working as a golf shop attendant at Beeson Park Golf Course in Winchester, Indiana. He went on to earn a golf scholarship at the University of Evansville, where he was a member of the men’s golf team and developed a passion for training and instructing players with physical disabilities and severe injuries.

Upon graduation from college in 1993, Ray built a diverse career spanning instruction, course operations, and the golf industry. He turned professional in 1994 working as an assistant at Polo Fields Golf & Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky. Ray then moved to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina where he worked as an Assistant at Port Royal Golf Club from 1997-1999. Shortly before he joined the Middle Atlantic Section, Ray worked as an Assistant at Gettysvue Polo Golf & Country Club in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Ray earned his PGA membership in 2002 while serving as an Assistant Professional at Green Hill Yacht & Country Club in Quantico, MD. He then became a Head PGA Professional at Upland Golf Club in 2004 before moving to Swan Point as their Head Professional. After two seasons at Swan Point, Ray moved into the sales rep side of the golf industry with Forefront Golf. He was then recruited into management, bringing his sought after PGA expertise to Dick’s Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy for a combined 13 years, before returning to serving as a sales rep for Range Servant in 2021.

A Passion for Teaching and Giving Back

Ray was a dedicated instructor who worked with volunteer and public programs to expand access to professional golf instruction. In recognition of his contributions, he received the 2011 MAPGA Player Development Award. A passionate volunteer, Ray dedicated his time as an instructor for two military programs - Salute Military Golf Association with Jim Estes, PGA, and Links to Freedom with Steve Greiner, PGA. For his steadfast commitment to wounded, ill, and injured service members through rehabilitative golf instruction, Ray was honored in 2024 with the Department of the Army Public Service Commendation Medal. His impact on the game, his students, and the military community will not soon be forgotten.

Ray’s legacy of mentorship, service, and dedication to the game of golf will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Celebrating Ray’s Life

Ray’s life will be celebrated on March 1, 2025, at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home in Fairfax, VA. Visitation will be hosted from 12:00 – 1:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service from 1:00 – 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Links to Freedom in his honor.

Travel & Accommodations

For those traveling from out of town, hotel blocks have been arranged at the following locations:

Marriott Fairview Park Falls Church – Reserve here

Residence Inn Fairfax Merrifield – Reserve here

We deeply appreciate the love and support of family and friends during this time.