In Memory of Ruth Richards

November 15, 1920 -- February 15, 2012

In the three years that my family lived in Bryant, Alabama, Mrs. Richards was a church member, a neighbor, a friend, and like a grandmother to me. We lived on the right side of the church and she lived on the left, there were many times that I went over at her house. I don't remember the first time meeting her or how we became friends; we just always were. There are many memories that I have of us together. In church my family sat on the second row on the left side, and she sat on the row behind us. Many times as a kid I remember passing papers back and forth playing tic-tack-toe, connect the dots, or drawings of animals. Only her drawings were a lot better than mine. I remember other times like helping with her garden, doing some yard work, or just climbing in trees beside the driveway. Anthony would sometimes come over to her house with me but not very often because he a little afraid of Kiska who was always on the porch, ready to bark at anyone coming to the house. Mrs Richards loved for me to come over so we could talk. She had a genuine interest in me and liked to know what was happening with me. I also enjoyed hearing her tell stories. Most of the time when I was leaving she would give me a container of applesauce. After finishing it at home, my mom would wash it, and I would bring it back the next time only to have her fill it again. After moving from Alabama to New York, we would keep in contact by writing letters. She was my pin pal.  About the time of high school I quit writing letters. Our friendship was renewed again when I came to Southern and drove down to the Sand Mountain Church once or twice a year to visit with her after church. This school year I didn't make it down there until last Sunday for the funeral service. She was still very active and loved life even at 91 years old. I know that her family will miss her, and I will too. . .till we meet again.