Oklahoma City, OK - Robert E. L. Richardson, affectionately known as Bob, peacefully passed away due to natural causes on May 2, 2025, in Oklahoma City, OK. Born in Thomas, OK, on November 20, 1932 to George and Eunice Richardson, Bob's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to education and the law.

He joined the Army National Guard while still navigating high school and served with distinction during the Korean War. He received his commission in the Army Guard and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southwestern State University.

The University of Oklahoma Law School was the next step and while a law student, he was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives. After earning his law degree, Bob was awarded a fellowship at Georgetown Law School, culminating in an advanced law degree and a unique opportunity to serve as a staffer on a congressional committee in Washington, D.C., investigating Nelson ratings.

In 1964, Bob joined the faculty at OU Law School. For nearly four decades, he was a fixture in the halls of learning, teaching law with a combination of rigor and warmth that endeared him to students and colleagues alike. Bob took on various deanship roles and directed the esteemed OU Oxford program. He was recognized as a David Ross Boyd Professor and held the Norris Chair.

Closest to his heart, Bob's love story with his wife Pat, was one for the ages. Their nearly 50-year-long union was a testament to devotion and companionship until her passing earlier in 2025. Their family includes daughter Kristi Davey and son Tommy Kight, son-in-law Bill Davey, grandson Conner, his wife Claire and great grandson Drake and granddaughter Jennifer Davey. His grandchildren, were the joys of Bob's life and he was especially influential in encouraging them to be a successful physician and pilot and sharing with them his passion for travel and sports.

Bob was predeceased by his son Tommy, and several brothers and sisters. He is survived by sisters, Mary Gertrude Barber and Carol Vaughn, and many nieces and nephews. Bob especially enjoyed the consistent support and love shown by Ann Harris and Ronnie Barber in his later years, and of course his daughter Kristi Davey with whom he shared a cherished father-daughter bond. The family is grateful for the kindness of the caregivers at Legends at Rivendale and Choice Hospice.


Though he may have left us in body, his spirit and the lessons he imparted remain indelible in the fabric of our community. Rest in peace, Bob Richardson; your memory will forever be a guide to those who follow in your footsteps.

Services will be held at McFarlin United Methodist Church in Norman Oklahoma on June 23rd at 3:00.