J. Golden Richards

John Golden Richards (Golden) passed away peacefully at his home on February 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Golden was born on December 31, 1950 in Salt Lake City, Utah, the son of John (Jack) and Gloria Richards. He grew up with his five brothers and sister in the big “pink house” on 45th south and 13th east in Salt Lake. He attended Granite High School graduating in 1969. A decorated athlete, he excelled in and was “all state” in football, basketball and track! He attended Brigham Young University where he played football earning “All Conference” honors as a wide receiver known for his blazing speed and leading the nation in punt returns.

He went on to be drafted by the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL in the 2nd round in 1973. He played five years for the Cowboys (including two Super Bowls) as a punt return specialist and starting wide receiver and two years for the Chicago Bears before retiring in 1980.

Golden was a sweet loving soul whose heart was pure as “gold”… like his name! He was gracious and kind to all he knew or came in contact with. He was a “people person” who loved to talk to anyone and offer help or advice.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Golden spent hours with his sons, brothers and Dad in the outdoors. Fishing at Beaver Creek near Kamas or deer hunting in Antimony were precious moments for him and his family.

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Golden loved his family above all. He was blessed to have two sons (Jay Golden “Goldie”) and Jordan who he loved and adored along with a grandson named Jett!

He is survived by his beloved sons Goldie, Jordan (Shelby) and brothers Randy, Doug, Sterling, Royal, Russell and his sister Dollie, and many loving nephews and nieces.

As a final act of kindness and goodness, Golden has donated his brain to the Boston University Medical Center for research in studying the impact on concussions (CTE) on the brain. With the hope to benefit medical science and future generations of athletes.

Friends and family may visit and share memories and extend condolences to Golden and his family on Friday March 1st from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at the LDS church located at 619 West 5750 South, Murray, Utah. Thereafter, private burial services will be conducted by his family.

The family wishes to thank the good people at Elevation Hospice for their wonderful and loving care of Golden. We also wish to thank Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary and the Elysian Burial Gardens for their care and service.