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John R. Richard, a beloved resident of Picayune, celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 25, 2024, surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers. His century of life has been marked by service, love, and unwavering dedication to his community and country.

In a heartfelt proclamation, Mayor Jim Luke of Picayune declared Dec. 28, 2024, “A Day to Honor the Service and Dedication of Mr. John R. Richard.” The proclamation recognizes Richard’s remarkable life and contributions, including his service as a Navy cook aboard the USS Duluth during World War II.

John Richard, the fourth of seven children, was born to Claude and Carrie Richard in Picayune on Dec. 25, 1924. He attended George Washington Carver High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy just shy of his 18th birthday in 1942. During his four years of military service, Richard exemplified courage and commitment, earning an honorable discharge in 1946.

Following his military career, Richard returned to Picayune before relocating to California, where he met and married the love of his life, Ollie Booker White, in 1968. The couple created a loving family together, raising her two children and being affectionately “adopted” as parents by close friends. After retirement, they moved to Stockton, California, where they lived for two decades before relocating to Michigan to be near family. After his wife’s passing in 2012, Richard returned to Stockton, and in 2023, he returned to Picayune, where he now resides.

Despite his age, Richard remains an active member of the Picayune community. He enjoys crossword puzzles, drawing, painting, cooking, and attending Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, where fellow congregants cherish him.

“Mr. Richard represents the values of honor, courage, and sacrifice,” Mayor Luke said during the proclamation ceremony. “His life is an inspiration to us all, and we are proud to celebrate his 100 years of dedication to family, faith, and service.”

As Picayune celebrates its cherished centenarian, the community reflects on the enduring legacy of a man whose life has touched many.