Thelma Lucinda Richardson's Obituary
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).
What’s your fondest memory of Thelma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thelma?
Share a story where Thelma's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thelma you’ll never forget.
How did Thelma make you smile?