In this special Father’s Day edition of SwagHer Magazine’s Daddy’s Girl column, media personality and entrepreneur Nicole Richardson opens her heart to honor the man who helped shape her life — her beloved father, Rev. William L. Richardson. A community leader, gospel radio voice, and deeply devoted family man, Rev. Richardson’s impact continues to resonate far beyond his passing on June 12, 2022.
Now living in Los Angeles but proudly rooted in South Carolina, Nikki reflects on the memories, lessons, and love that define their unbreakable bond. With honesty and grace, she shares what it meant to be a Daddy’s Girl, the strength she draws from his legacy, and how she continues to keep his spirit alive through service, storytelling, and celebration.
Tell us about yourself.
Nicole Richardson: I am Nicole Richardson, “Nikki Rich” from South Carolina, living in Los Angeles.
When was he born, and when did he pass away?
Nicole Richardson: My father, Rev. William L Richardson, was born in April. He passed away on June 12, 2022.
Please tell us about your Dad. What can you share with us about his personality?
Nicole Richardson: My dad, Rev. William L. Richardson, had an electric and unforgettable personality that touched everyone he met, not just our family. He was truly a man of the community, always giving of himself to serve others. During the holidays, he made it a tradition to take my three brothers, Nick, Eric, and Lamar, and me to local nursing homes and businesses, such as grocery stores, where he would read the Bible, hand out fruit bags, and lead worship with the elderly residents. He taught us by example what it means to love, give, and uplift others. His heart for people was pure and loving. His ministry was his life that left a lasting impact on our city and world, which continues to inspire me every day.
What occupations and/or passions did he have throughout his life?
Nicole Richardson: Rev. William L. Richardson wore many hats throughout his life, and he carried each role with purpose and passion. He was not only a Minister in the community but also a Minister on the radio alongside my mother, Mary E. Richardson. A well-known gospel singer who co-hosted a gospel program on 94.1 The Lake FM/AM in Seneca, South Carolina. Their voices became a staple in the community, uplifting listeners in South Carolina with powerful music, preaching gospel messages of faith. His passion for ministry, love for the business and community, as well as music, allowed him to reach the hearts of many people in person and over the airwaves, leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration and service in South Carolina.
How does your father still influence your life today?
Nicole Richardson: My father continues to influence my life in so many ways. He was a true creator, businessman, and Minister, always building something meaningful, especially through his work in radio. He didn’t just host shows; he used his platform to uplift others and share his love for Jesus Christ. He partnered with and supported local business owners in our hometown, helping them grow by giving them exposure on his broadcasts. He also organized community events and concerts in the park, bringing people together through music, faith, and fellowship.
Watching him in action inspired me. It planted a seed in me to one day follow in his footsteps to be a creator. Creating my own platform, supporting others, and giving back to the community through volunteering and helping in such a significant way. I know it’s going to take time, but I carry his example with me every step of the way. His legacy will continue to live on.
What are your fondest memories of your father? Is there a moment or a story you find yourself returning to often?
Nicole Richardson: One of my best memories of my father is simply watching the way he loved my mother. I was truly blessed to have both of my parents in my life in the same household, and as a daughter, it meant everything to grow up seeing firsthand how a man should treat a woman. My dad constantly showered my mother with love, not just on holidays, but all throughout the year. He would take her out to dine on breakfast, lunch, and dinner, surprise her with gifts, and always make her feel special as a wife and mother.
Their relationship was so beautiful & loving. They often dressed alike, especially when attending church or his gospel radio anniversary programs. That bond they shared left a deep impression on me. It taught me a lot about love, respect, partnership, and faith. It’s a memory I hold very close and often look back on when I am thinking of him.
How would you describe your relationship with your Dad? What made your bond special?
Nicole Richardson: My dad and I had a close bond. He was my dad, so he protected me.
What did being a Daddy’s Girl mean to you? What do you miss most about him?
Nicole Richardson: I spent a lot of time with my dad, having fun with him, and visiting his family, the Richardsons. I would always ask for things, and he would give them.
Being a Daddy’s Girl meant the world to me. I was always by my dad’s side with my mom spending time with him, laughing, and just enjoying his presence. Some of my favorite memories are the trips we took to visit his side of the family, the Richardsons, going to see my uncles and aunts. Those moments were filled with love, laughter, family, and tradition.
I could always count on him anytime, whether it was for something I needed or to brighten my day. I’d ask for things, and he’d always find a way to say yes by giving me what I needed or wanted. What I miss most is his presence itself, hearing his loud voice calling my name.
If you could tell your Dad one thing this Father’s Day, what would it be?
Nicole Richardson: I love you, Dad. Thank you for being the best father.
What advice would you give to someone who lost their father and is struggling to navigate this new normal?
Nicole Richardson: As a daddy’s girl, losing my father has been one of the hardest experiences of my life. Navigating this new normal hasn’t been easy. It’s not normal to me. What has helped me most is holding onto the memories we shared, keeping his memory alive by sharing stories, photos, and videos that celebrate who he was. It brightens my heart. My advice to anyone struggling with this kind of loss is: Talk to someone is key, whether it’s a therapist, a trusted friend, or a loved one. Grief doesn’t have a timeline, and it’s okay to look to others as you heal. We must give ourselves grace and remember that my father’s love and presence surround us, and we will forever cherish him.
How do you keep his memory alive today and honor your father’s life on days like Father’s Day?
Nicole Richardson: I’m always sharing memories of my father because I have so many photos and videos of us that I captured throughout the years. I love to create tribute videos that share the love and laughter he brought into our lives. On special days like Father’s Day, I share these memories to honor his legacy and reflect on the beautiful moments we shared. It’s my way of keeping his spirit present and reminding others of the incredible man my father was.
Connect with Nicole online here: @msnikkirich
Read more of the Daddy’s Girl Series.
