Opinion: All South Carolinians should learn about Richardson through Felder's new book

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I just finished reading "The Life and Times of Dr. Luns C. Richardson," a book by Sumter native and author Jim Felder.

This book covers the time from when Richardson began plowing at age 8 years old in Hartsville, South Carolina, until his death in 2018.

As a graduate of Morris College and a member of the Board of Trustees, I thought I knew everything about this legendary president of my college. As I sat in my hotel room at the recent annual meeting of the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina, I began reading the book. I could not put it down until I finished it.

I knew and had experienced what Dr. Richardson did to lift Morris College to the level it enjoys today. I knew he served as acting president of Benedict College for one-and-a-half years. I knew he was the first dean of Area Trade, now Denmark TECH, and served for 15 years. I knew he had served as principal of both Saint Helena Island High School in Beaufort County and Wilson High School in Florence. And I knew he was the pastor of Thankful Baptist Church in Bamberg, South Carolina, for 56 years.

What I did not knew was the impact he left on the institutions and communities he served. Felder's book digs deep into those institutions and communities and uncovers the many stories from individuals whom Richardson worked with. He left deep footprints everywhere he served. I now have a greater appreciation for the work of Dr. Luns C. Richardson. This book should be in every home in South Carolina.

DR. JAMES B. BLASSINGAME

Pastor, Mt. Zion Baptist Church