Western Kentucky Holds Funeral Service for Former Coach Jim Richards

Bowling Green, KY, October 13, 2026 —

Western Kentucky University held a funeral service at the E.A. Diddle Area for Jim Richards, the school’s former men’s basketball head coach, who died at age 90.

Richards had a career with the Hilltoppers that included roles in basketball, golf and university athletics administration. As an assistant men’s basketball coach, he helped lead the team to a Final Four. Later, as head coach, he guided the Hilltoppers to a Sweet 16 appearance.

His work at Western Kentucky extended beyond basketball. Richards also served as the university’s golf coach and athletic director, according to the information provided about his career. The service at the E.A. Diddle Area honored a figure described by the university as a legendary former coach.

The available information does not specify when the funeral service took place, how long Richards held each position, or the years in which the team reached the Final Four and Sweet 16. It also does not provide details about the circumstances of his death or identify speakers at the service.

Richards’ career connected him with several parts of Western Kentucky’s athletics program: he served as an assistant and head coach in men’s basketball, coached golf and held the athletic director role. The university’s service recognized his ties to the Hilltoppers and his contributions across those positions.

Story summarized from the original created by Hayden Ballinger on www.wnky.com, see more information here.