Claude Thomas Richards

Claude Thomas Richards
Claude Thomas Richards, 91, of Beaumont, passed on to eternal life with his Heavenly Father on Father's Day, June 18, 2023.
Claude was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on May 9, 1932 to Claude T. Richards and Adina Raper Richards. He graduated from Little Rock High School in 1950. He was in the United States Army and served in Germany during the Korean War. Claude later attended Texarkana Junior College where he met the love of his life, Kay Simmons. He continued his education at North Texas State College in Denton, Texas, where he graduated in 1957. He and Kay married in 1958, beginning their legacy of love that will never end.
After a successful 34-year career with Sears, Roebuck and Co., Claude retired in 1993, having worked in Alexandria, Louisiana, Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas, Bossier City, Louisiana, Beaumont, Port Arthur and Orange, Texas.
Claude was a man of true dedication and this was evident in his marriage, career, church and family life. His greatest joy was his family. He considered his wife, children and grandchildren to be true gifts from God. Claude had a servant’s heart that extended far beyond just his home. After retirement he served as a Deacon at Woodland Baptist Church and as a member of the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature. He also served as President of the Sears Alumni Club and was on the Boards of Directors for Nutrition & Services for Seniors and Some Other Place.
Claude suffered a stroke in 2010 and became immobile and unable to speak. His face would still light up with joy when family would gather. Many would have given up in his circumstances, but his determination, faith, and the loving, committed care by Kay, Diane and Susan kept him going for many more years. He will be deeply missed by his family and all that knew and loved him.
Claude is survived by his wife of 64 years, Caroline Kay Simmons Richards; children, Jeff Richards (Kim), Diane Richards Hoffmann (Henry), Gregg Richards (Lorrie), and Susan Richards; grandchildren, Payton Richards, Trenton Richards and Elizabeth Hoffmann Breaux (Dalton); brother-in-law, Gloyd Simmons; nephew, Thomas Pierce (Cathy), and other beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Claude is predeceased by his parents; sister, Dodie Pierce Chelf; and sister-in-law, Anita Simmons.
The family would like to express their appreciation to all of the special people who participated in his care over the past 13 years, with deepest gratitude and love for Brittany Garcia, Kelsey Finn, Shelby Romero and Laurence Parker.
A visitation will be held Thursday, June 22, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Woodland Baptist Church, 1860 West Lucas, Beaumont, Texas. Graveside service to be held Saturday, June 24, at 11:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Cemetery, Hwy 67 W., Texarkana, Texas.
Memorial contributions to continue his legacy of service can be made to Woodland Baptist Church, Nutrition & Services for Seniors or Some Other Place, all located in Beaumont TX.