On November 10, 2023, the world lost a true renaissance man, Antowaine Richardson Sr., a soul whose journey spanned the realms of sports, music, and motivational leadership. His passing leaves behind an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on January 19, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, Antowaine’s journey through life was marked by extraordinary achievements and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Despite being a talented artist and painter, it was his athletic prowess that led him to Seattle and the University of Washington where he played football under the tutelage of the legendary coach, Don James. Antowaine’s tenacity, skill, and leadership on the gridiron, cemented his place in the annals of Husky football history alongside his teammates, Warren Moon, Mark Lee, Bruce Harrell, Michael Jackson, Spider Gaines, Ronnie Rowland, and his childhood friend, Nesby Glasgow, among many others.
After a knee injury derailed his pro-football aspirations, Antowaine found his voice as one of the founding members and charismatic lead singer of Seattle’s cherished a cappella group, The Main Attraction. The group’s rise in prominence included being an entertainment staple at the Bite of Seattle, as well as the opening act for everyone from Eddie Murphy to Natalie Cole and B.B. King, to the Charlie Daniels Band and Manhattan Transfer. The beloved group was often at the center of high society in the Pacific Northwest, which was further underscored by being chosen to perform at the Seattle wedding reception for Bill and Melinda Gates. At the root of it all was Antowaine’s soulful vocals and magnetic stage presence. The Main Attraction became a cornerstone of the city’s music scene, and Antowaine’s contributions to their harmonious melodies persist in the memories of fans and fellow musicians alike.
In the later chapters of his life, Antowaine transitioned seamlessly into a career as a motivational speaker and youth program facilitator for The Pacific Institute, working closely with its visionary founder, Lou Tice. Numerous colleagues and students from this period attest to his transformative impact on individuals and organizations, spreading a message of empowerment and unlocking human potential.
His motivational expertise returned him again to the realm of college football, where he played a crucial role as a facilitator in helping to guide the University of Alabama to a championship season in 2009 alongside the esteemed coach Nick Saban. His influence on the Crimson Tide transcended the playing field, leaving an indelible mark on the team’s success and the lives of those he worked with.
Antowaine’s lifetime of exercising courage, determination, grace under pressure, and positive self-reinforcement carried him through a nearly decade long battle with Parkinson’s disease. That battle was finally, peacefully ended a few minutes after midnight on November 10, 2023 where he was surrounded by those he loved most in the world.
Antowaine is survived by his loving mother, Alice Beasley, his devoted wife, caretaker, and best friend, Sheila, his children LaShanda Cormier, Candice Richardson, and Antowaine “AJ” Richardson Jr., his cherished grandchildren, Jai McCurdy, Nia McCurdy and Shayla Richardson, numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and a vast circle of friends. His family and friends take solace in the memories of a life well-lived and the enduring impact he had on so many.
As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary individual, we celebrate Antowaine Richardson Sr.’s legacy—a legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of those who were touched by his warmth, wisdom, and boundless passion. In honoring his memory, let us remember the lessons he shared and carry forward the spirit of resilience, determination, and love that defined his remarkable journey on this earth.
