Johnell Richo Jr. was born September 27,1949 in Fernandina Beach, FL, to the union of Johnell Richo, Sr. and Gussie Harker Richo. He was the oldest of five siblings.
Johnell grew up in Fernandina Beach and graduated from Peck High School. He was enrolled in college for a year before being drafted into the United States Army; where he served from January 1969 to January 1975. (Medals received: National Defense Service, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign and Good Conduct.)
After serving in the military, Johnell worked at Container Pulp Mill, Atlantic Coastline Railroad and finally retired as a Shrimper; he loved the ocean. He was a jack-of-all trades; helping whomever and wherever needed. Johnell and Robbie Wilson were united in marriage December 1, 1989 after 12 years of courtship. To this union one son was born, Neil Richo. Early in life he attended Elm Street COG. In his latter years, he started attending New Jerusalem HOGSIC and became a member. After he recommitted his life to the Lord Johnell became very faithful. He served on the Usher Board for several years and was the newly appointed Usher Board President. He was committed to Sunday School, Prayer/Bible Study, Men's Ministry and Worship Service.
Johnell was preceded in death by his mother Gussie H. Richo, two brothers Joseph and James Richo and one step-daughter Angel Reed. He leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife Robbie Richo, father Johnell Richo Sr. (Delores), a daughter Tara Brown, a son Neil Richo, two step-sons John Wilson (Shirley) and Ray Reed; one step daughter Docher Reed; two sisters Dr. Patricia Bland (Leon) and Alahendra Richo; two uncles Abraham Richo (Dorothy) and Jerome Richo (Pastor Jeanette); four aunts Gladys Middleton, Hattie Joseph, Elizabeth Thompson (George) and Gerldine Walker; nine grand children, three great grand children, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special friends: New Jerusalem HOGSIC Usher Board.
The funeral service will be held 11:00 am Saturday, May 14, 2016, at the River of Praise Worship Center, 83410 St. Mark Dr. Yulee, FL. The visitation will be 5-7:00 pm Friday, at the Elm St. Church of God 502 S. 11th St., Fernandina Beach, FL. Interment in Jacksonville National Cemetery. Please sign the family guest book and view the video tribute at www.tswarden.com. Arrangements in care of Tyrone S. Warden.