Thelma Lucinda Richardson

Thelma’s Story Thelma Lucinda Richardson who often went by the name “Mother” or “Sis Rice” was born on March 1, 1944 in Baltimore, Maryland to the union of Willie and Ruthie Mae James. Thelma was the third of nine siblings. She completed her education in Albany, Georgia, graduating from Monroe High School. Thelma was preceded in death by her father, Willie James; her sister, Loretta; her granddaughter, Tiera James; her husband, Kenneth Richardson; her grandson, Ernest; brothers and her niece, Joyce Moore. Thelma was employed at Nordyne (Nortek Inc.) for twentyfive years, where she made gas and electric furnaces and wired air conditioners. Known for her strong work ethic, she was a hard working woman with many talents. After dedicating over two decades to her career, she eventually retired, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and skill. Thelma was baptized and dedicated her life to God at an early age. She joined the Good Shepard Church of God under the guidance of Assistant Pastor James E. Holloway, known as Bishop Holloway. In the 1970’s, she became affiliated with Solomon’s Temple, where she continued to nurture her faith and contribute to her community. As the years went by, Thelma married Kenneth Richardson in 1992, adding a new chapter to her life filled with love and companionship. Thelma later joined Centennial Holy Land Missionary Baptist Church, where everyone adored Mother Richardson. She was full of life and spirit, lighting up any room she entered. One of her favorite quotes that she often shared was: “When I think of the goodness of the Lord and all that He has done for me, my soul cries out. Hallelujah!!! Thank God for saving me. There was never a dull moment when Thelma was around. She truly enjoyed praising God and praying and her love for everyone was evident. Thelma was a caring, sharing and loving mother, sister, wife, aunt, cousin, niece and a true friend. She had a heart of gold and her kindness and warmth touched the lives of all who knew her. She was known for her large contagious and beautiful smile that brightened the faces of everyone she met. There are countless wonderful things that can be said about Thelma but I will end with this, let’s keep her spirit and love deep in our hearts, cherishing the joy she bought to our lives. Thelma departed this life on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Thelma leaves to cherish her memories and beautiful smile: her children, all of Saint Louis, Missouri ~ Sam Brown (Angie), Morgan, Tabitha, Carla (James), Ashlie, Mikeal, Stephanie, Andre, Porsha, Jalisia, Burdena (Cedric), Frazier, Muncel, Brittanie, Diamond, Christopher, Cedric Jr., Joy (Courtney, Christian, Chance, Chaterra and Constance), Staci, James, Robert, Alexxiss, William, Ashton, Davis (Justine) James, Zoey, Erik, Alex, Cylee Rose, Jacqueline (Crystal) Sanders, Antwinette Scaife, III; adopted daughters ~ Laura Joiner, Ada Livers and Angela Fortson; her mother ~ Ruthie Mae James of Albany, Georgia; her sister ~ Edna Lillie Ruth; her brothers ~ Colonel Anthony James, Willie Jr., Alva, Darren and Curtis James; great grandchildren ~ Tyrone, Rylie, Anisia, Eli, Ian, Kaylee, Raqueal and Liam; her best friends ~ John Hunt and Barbara Young; her loving niece ~ Lori Williams; and her prayer warriors ~ Danella Watkins, Ruthel Crockett, Caroline Turner, Na’rita Bradford, Cairo, Camyra, Carter, Calvin, Caliyah, Denim, Daliah and Klylym. We give all thank to: Nurses, Bristol Hospice and team, Antense Connor (RN), Tinisha Jackson (RN) and Bristol Chaplain (Aaron Watkins).

Tributes

Thelma Lucinda Richardson

March 1, 1944 - October 13, 2024