John Melvin Richmond

John Melvin Richmond, born October 31, 1951, in Kennet Missouri, passed away on April 10, 2026, at AdventHealth Lake Wales under the care of Vitas. He was a Vietnam Era Veteran, a US Military Police in Germany, and a dedicated school bus driver for the Polk County School Board, a job he took great pride in. John’s time as a school bus driver brought him joy.

He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and telling stories of his days farming and playing sports in his youth, such as his time playing college basketball and playing baseball for a Cardinals minor league team. He also loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, these moments were some of his most cherished.

John was a husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather. He was married to Gwen Moreland Richmond for 28 years. Together, they shared many happy times and built a loving family. John’s children who survive him are Lynette Bennett and her husband Keith Bennett of Houston, Texas, Janette Geiser and her husband Lance Geiser of Houston, Texas, John M. Richmond II of Springfeild, Missouri, Justin Richmond of Springfeild, Missouri, and Stephanie Elkhill (step) of Avon Park, Florida. He also leaves beind brothers Danny Richmond of Brooksville, and William Richmond and his wife Ann of Pocahontas, Arkansas. His family includes several grandchildren and great-granchildren which he held dearly. His grandchildren are Brandon Mockbee, Chelsea Mockbee, Justin Bennett, Stephanie Bell and Adam Bell, Katherine Geiser, Lucas Richmond, and Keaton Richmond. His step-grandchildren are Alexis Elkhill, Kolby Alsenady, Andrew Elkhill,

Victoria Elkhill, and Olivia Elkhill. He also treasured his great-grandchildren Jay Bell, Colton Bell, and Issac Mockbee.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Goldie Richmond, his sister Stella Newberry, his brother Raymond Richmond, and his (step) son Duane Elkhill.

Service will be held at Family Life Church, 139 Bulldog Way, Frostproof, Florida 33843 on April 25th, 2026, at 10:00am EST. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.