YOUNGSVILLE—Ernest Cordell Richards Jr., 47, died Sunday morning, March 4, 2012 at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, at Bethlehem Baptist Church (Franklin County). Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

He was born in Wake County, son of Arlene Kent Richards and Ernest Cordell Richards Sr. He was preceded in death by his mother, Arlene Kent Richards.

Surviving: wife, Fran Richards; stepdaughter, Carollynn Deloatch (Tim) of Youngsville; stepson, Ricky Knott (Kristy Carter) of Raleigh; father, Cordell Richards (Barbara) of Youngsville; brother, David Richards of Youngsville; grandmother, Virginia Kent of Lynn Haven, Fla.; and one stepgrandson.

Flowers are accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation (www.christopherreeve.org).

Friends may visit with the family from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. Wednesday prior to the service at the church.

Arrangements are by Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Wake Forest.

www.brightfunerals.com