Richard James Merriweather, Jr. was born on September 23, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, to the union of the late Pastor Letha Merriweather and Richard James Merriweather, Sr. Raised in a Christian home, Richard's faith was a guiding force in his life. His mother, a pastor for 38 years, raised Richard to be deeply rooted in the Word of God. He remained a devout Christian, living out his faith with grace, humility, and strength.

Richard graduated from Calumet High School in Chicago. He went on to study at Malcolm X College, as well as at the University of Illinois at Chicago (Circle Campus), briefly. His athleticism and passion for basketball led to him being dubbed "Big Rick" on the basketball court in the Brainerd Park community, where he spent much of his youth. Richard was a gifted athlete and a masterful baseball, ping-pong, and softball player. Many of his friends and family still marvel at his seemingly effortless athleticism. Richard, known as Junior and Rickey by his family, enjoyed sharing his love for games of strategy and intellect by teaching family members how to play Uno, Checkers, Chinese Checkers, Chess, Monopoly, Tonk, Bid-whist, and especially Spades. Several family members crowned him THE BEST Spades partner in the family.

Richard worked for many years at The Nut Company, where his dedication and work ethic earned the respect of his colleagues.

Richard departed this earthly life on April 2nd, 2025. He now joins his beloved wife, Mozell Merriweather, in eternal rest. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter, Bianca Coleman; his sister, Faith Thurmond; his brothers, Joel Merriweather Sr. and Timothy Merriweather Sr.; his grandchildren; and a host of stepchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family, and lifelong dear friends.

Richard will be remembered for his kind and gentle spirit, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and the joy he could bring into every room he entered. His legacy of love and devotion lives on through the many lives he touched.

His favorite scripture to quote was:

"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD." Isaiah 54:17