Chandler James Richardson

Private 2nd Class Chandler James Richardson, 18, of Peru, passed away at 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2017 in Vernon Parish, Louisiana as the result of an automobile accident.  He was born April 15, 1998 in Peru to Jay A. and Heather D. (Gilley) Richardson.   He graduated from Peru High School in June of 2016.  He was active in swing choir and drama club at Peru High School.

Chandler joined the US Army after graduation and was stationed at Ft. Polk, Louisiana.  He was a combat engineer with Company A, 317th Engineer Battalion.

Chandler enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing.  He cherished his beloved dogs, Jackson and Ginny.  He loved to make people laugh and had a huge heart for his family and friends.   He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Surviving family include his parents, Jay and Heather Richardson of Peru;  his sister, Jaelin Richardson, Peru; paternal grandmother, Kay Richardson, Peru;  maternal grandparents, Terri Grant, Wabash; David (Margie) Gilley, Murfreesboro, TN and Jeff (Linda) Grant, Evansville, IN; great grandmothers, Lydia Sullivan, Peru; Runnell Gilley, Greenville, IN; and Rita Miller, Wabash, IN; great great grandmother, Chris Mason, Ft. Wayne, IN, Uncles, Jon Richardson, Peru;  Jeff (Lisa) Richardson, Newport News, VA and Chad Gilley, Wabash, IN; cousins, Matthew and Mike Richardson, Peru; and a special little brother Jacob Grant. Along with many of close family and friends. Preceding him in death is his paternal grandfather, James Richardson and maternal great grandparents, Charles and Lois Southwick.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 26th at Riverview Funeral Home, 421 West Canal Street, Peru, IN with Rev. Phil Cruea officiating.  Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Peru.  Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, January 25th at the funeral home. Chandler was passionate about helping other soldiers serving our country,  in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project or Mission 22 in Chandler’s honor.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Riverview Funeral Home, 421 West Canal Street, Peru, Indiana.  www.riverviewfhperu.com