Jan Edgar Richard, a dedicated sports advocate and founder of the nonprofit Florida Rising Stars, passed away on December 13, 2025, at Suncoast Hospice in Pinellas Park, Florida. He was 72 years old and succumbed to complications following a stroke.
Born on October 9, 1953, in Orange, Massachusetts, Jan was the son of Gerard and Annette Richard. He grew up in the same town, where he received his education and graduated from Mahar Regional High School.
Career in Sports and Community Engagement
Jan began his professional journey at Orange Town Hardware, working alongside Nate Steinberg. His passion for sports soon led him to explore various roles within both major and minor leagues throughout his career. He married Elaine DeJackome at St. Mary’s Church in Orange, and shortly after, they relocated to Orlando, Florida, where they raised their family.
Jan and Elaine welcomed their first daughter, Nina, in December 1981, followed by their second daughter, Nicole, in April 1986. His commitment to sports and mentorship culminated in the establishment of Florida Rising Stars, an organization dedicated to supporting and developing high school and college athletes. Jan’s work with the nonprofit was not only a career but also a lifelong passion that impacted many young lives.
Legacy and Family
Jan is survived by his daughters, Nina Richard, who lives in Searsport, Maine, and her wife, Sherian; and Nicole Richard of Orlando, Florida. He also leaves behind his grandson, Tucker, and his sister and brother-in-law, Sandra and Jack O’Loughlin, who reside in Seminole, Florida.
He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Ronald Richard, from Leominster, Massachusetts. The family requests that donations be made in Jan’s memory to Suncoast Hospice, located at 1660 102nd Avenue North, Pinellas Park, Florida, instead of flowers.
A celebration of Jan’s life will be scheduled for a later date, allowing friends and family to honor his memory and contributions to the community.
