wbko
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — A memorial service was held at E.A. Diddle Arena to honor the life and legacy of Jim Richards, a longtime coach and athletic director at Western Kentucky University. Family, friends, and community members came together to pay their respects and share memories of a man whose influence extended far beyond the playing field.
Richards devoted more than thirty years to guiding WKU's basketball and golf teams. His coaching career was marked by numerous achievements, including serving as an assistant coach for the 1971 men's basketball team that reached the Final Four. He later took the helm as head coach of the men's basketball program, where he secured over 100 victories and led the Hilltoppers to a Sweet 16 appearance in 1978. Following his basketball tenure, Richards became head coach of the men's golf team, where he still holds records for the most wins in a single season and across a career.
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Beyond the wins and records, Richards was remembered as a mentor and friend. Former golfer Scott Ray spoke of Richards as a father figure, saying, "I've known Coach Richards longer than I knew my dad. And many times, after my dad died, I would call coach or I would text him seeking advice. And yes, he could text at 70 years old and 80 and 90." Ray emphasized that Richards' true success was measured by the lives he touched: "Coaching is about how many lives he touched, how many kids he inspired way after their college days were over. By that standard, Coach Richards was a tremendous success."
Richards' grandson, Curtis Richards, reflected on his grandfather's warmth: "Jim Richards was a man loved by all. A man that cared for his wife, his family, and every single person he ever met. And if you met him, you couldn't help but fall in love with him." Longtime friend Ralph Dillihay added, "Jim Richards was a friend to everyone. Jim Richards was my good friend, and I already miss my good friend."
Richards is survived by his wife of 67 years, his children, grandchildren, and generations of players who called him coach. His legacy of mentorship and compassion will continue to inspire the WKU community and beyond.
Originally reported by wbko.