Edward Phillip Richards, Jr.

Edward "Captain Eddie" Phillip Richards, Jr., passed away peacefully on July 6, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on May 21, 1932, in Charleston, SC, Eddie was the second of seven children born to Edward Phillip Richards, Sr. and Gladys Jones Richards.

The relatives and friends of Edward Phillip Richards, Jr., are invited to attend his Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, Friday, July 12, 2024, at the graveside, Holy Cross Cemetery, Charleston.

Eddie is predeceased by his older brother, John J. Richards and his younger sisters, Mary R. Richtermeyer, Anne R. Guerry, Susan R. Clark and Bernadette R. Knisley. He is survived by his sister, Irene R. Bennett and his brothers-in-law, Edward L. Knisley, Sr. and Richard Richtermeyer, all of Charleston.

Captain Eddie was a devoted father to three children. He is survived by his sons, Edward P. Richards III and Mark W. Richards (Susanne), both of Charleston. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dianne R. Wadell. Eddie's legacy lives on through his five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Eddie's great-grandparents immigrated from Ireland and he grew up on Wentworth Street in downtown Charleston. He was baptized at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on Anson Street, attended St. Joseph's Grammar School and graduated from Bishop England High School.

At the young age of 18, Eddie passed the Coast Guard exam to become a licensed captain. He began his maritime career running the Charleston branch pilot boat and later the Gray Line tour boat. He briefly worked for the park service, shuttling park rangers to Fort Sumter, before establishing his own launch and line handling service in 1968. Throughout his career, Captain Eddie moved barges and vessels along the intracoastal waterway, docked ships in Charleston Harbor and built numerous artificial reefs for the state of South Carolina. He continued working in his business until his passing.

Eddie's love for the sea and his dedication to his work were matched only by his commitment to his family. He lived in McClellanville, SC, where he was a cherished member of the community.

Captain Eddie's life was a testament to hard work, perseverance and love for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) an organization dear to Eddie’s heart.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. 843-766-1365.