Barry Morgan Richards, beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law, coach and friend to all passed away April 23, 2020 at home with his wife of 56 years and son by his side. Born January 22, 1941, the only child of Charles Matheson “Matt” Richards and Margaret Carlson in Salt Lake City, UT. Married Margo-Lynn Thurman on August 14, 1964 in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Survived by his wife Margo and sons Preston M. Richards (Stephanie), Cedar Hills, UT and Brandon D. Richards (Denice), Waxhaw, NC, grandchildren Parker, Landon, Gracie, Emily and Cassidy and his wife’s family Heather Fowles (Don, deceased), Judge William T. Thurman (Sue) and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents.

Born and raised in Salt Lake City, he was a member of the first graduating class at Highland High School. He served a mission to the Central British Mission, graduated from the U of U with a B.A. degree and later earned his School Administrative degree. He worked for 34 years in the Granite School District where he worked as a teacher, coach, counselor, and later as principal of Kennedy Jr. High and Kearns High School. He retired as Director of High Schools. He later taught at UVU in Orem, UT.

Barry was a competitor who loved all sports. He was co-captain of his high school football team, a member of the 1959 All Church Volleyball Team, coached the Granite High School baseball team to a State Championship in 1970. He achieved a hole in one after retiring. He loved football and being a member of a team. In his spare time, he coached football and baseball for 25 years. He received many awards and recognitions in his profession.

He served extensively in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was a Bishop, High Councilman and Teacher. After retirement, he and Margo served a mission in the Lima Peru Temple and the MTC as Branch President of the North American missionaries. He learned a little Spanish. His favorite words were “Si” and “No”. Later they served as Conference Center Tour Guides. He was a covenant keeper, a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

Barry loved people and accepted all. He was known as a man without guile. He had a vacation home in Ivins, UT where he enjoyed time with family and friends ATVing, golfing and exploring the hillsides for rocks.

Barry enjoyed many hobbies and interests and had a great sense of humor. He was a listener and used his gifts of wisdom and understanding throughout life. He dearly loved his wife, family and friends. He was proud of their performances and achievements. To some, he was “Uncle Barry”. He will be greatly missed.

A private family graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South) in Sandy, UT. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. He would like to thank his caregivers for their help and service. In lieu of flowers, please do something kind for someone else.