Marjorie Richmond, College benefactor, dies at 88

Marjorie Laird Richmond, philanthropist and wife of the late Jack C. Richmond, died on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017. The Richmonds were generous donors to the University of Illinois including a $2 million gift to fund construction of the Richmond Journalism Teaching Studio, part of the WILL AM-FM-TV and Online facility.

“The Richmond Journalism Teaching Studio has always been an excellent place for students to learn hands-on television journalism,” said John Paul, lecturer in journalism. “The studio offers students a professional experience and a great way to learn about broadcast journalism.  It’s hard to imagine television classes at the U of I without the generous contributions of the Richmond family.”

"University of Illinois journalism students are fortunate to be able to learn their craft at the Richmond Journalism Teaching Studio,” said Ken Erdey, lecturer in journalism. “I am grateful for the opportunity the Richmond Studio makes possible for future journalists."

At the university, gifts from the Richmonds also benefited athletics and the Alumni Association. Outside of the university, the Richmonds established the Jack and Marjorie Richmond Scholarship at the Champaign County Farm Bureau Foundation and pledged nearly $450,000 toward the renovation of the Champaign County Courthouse bell tower in honor of Arthur and Mildred Richmond, Mr. Richmond’s parents.

Marjorie Laird and Jack Richmond met in Clark County, IL and had their first date on her 21st birthday. They did not marry until 1988 after taking care of their ailing parents. Marjorie was a legal secretary for Owens-Corning in Toledo, Ohio for many years. Together they traveled the world and enjoyed attending U of I athletic events.

Read the full obituary here.