Obituary for Joe H. Richards
On Thursday evening, February 4, 2021 our sweet daddy of 90 years walked through Heavens Gates.
Here is a little of his life story.
Joe H.(Hyder) Richards was born, March 17, 1930 in Newlin, TX to Claude G. and Willie Mae Richards. He was raised in the Field and Melrose communities with his siblings, Mary (Richards) Lavender and Billy Kinsey. During his high school years he excelled in track and football. After graduating high school in 1948, he enlisted in the army and served his country for 4 years during the Korean conflict.
On November 25, 1950 he married the love of his life, Juanita Frazier. They shared 68 years together and during this time they made their home in Melrose with their daughters Terri and Sherri. Dad worked for the REA, now known as Farmer’s Electric Coop. He loved serving the people of the Melrose community and surrounding area, climbing poles and keeping their lights on, no matter the weather or time of day or night.
Dad loved his church, family and community. He was raised in the First Baptist Church of Melrose, and became a deacon in 1972. He had a beautiful singing voice and loved leading music at church for many years. Oh, the memories of His voice!
Dad lived his life with purpose and perseverance. He was a builder who loved working with wood, refinishing furniture, he was a welder, loved mixing and running cement, working in the yard, and was always willing to help our mom, Nita with her many projects. Dad knew the value of hard work, and making the most of every day! After retiring from (40 years) at Farmers Electric he and mom moved to Clovis in 1996 where he continued to be active! We have often said, “We could never outwork our Dad and PapaJoe!”
Joe is survived by 2 daughters; Terri Curtis and husband (Blake) of Clovis; Sherri Carver and husband (Bruce) of Albuquerque.
4 Grandchildren; TJ and (Aundi) Curtis of Clovis, Andrew Curtis of Lubbock, Amanda (Hensal) Curtis of Lubbock, Danielle and (Chad) Corbin (Albuquerque), Heith (Andie) Carver of Albuquerque.
9 Great Grandchildren; Taydyn(17), Blake(14), Jett(12), Aynslee(9), Kate(11), Carter(7) Curtis; Charlie Corbin(3); Wyatt(6), Everly(3) Carver.
A few lines from one of Dad’s favorite Gospel Hymns; “Many things about tomorrow, I don’t seem to understand, but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand.”
We will celebrate and honor our Dad and Papa Joe on Thursday, February 11, 2:00 pm, Melrose Cemetery. Friends and loved one are welcome, but we respect and honor your decision regarding Covid 19.
From our families, thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Memorial contributions can be made to First Baptist Church, Melrose New Mexico.
Here is a little of his life story.
Joe H.(Hyder) Richards was born, March 17, 1930 in Newlin, TX to Claude G. and Willie Mae Richards. He was raised in the Field and Melrose communities with his siblings, Mary (Richards) Lavender and Billy Kinsey. During his high school years he excelled in track and football. After graduating high school in 1948, he enlisted in the army and served his country for 4 years during the Korean conflict.
On November 25, 1950 he married the love of his life, Juanita Frazier. They shared 68 years together and during this time they made their home in Melrose with their daughters Terri and Sherri. Dad worked for the REA, now known as Farmer’s Electric Coop. He loved serving the people of the Melrose community and surrounding area, climbing poles and keeping their lights on, no matter the weather or time of day or night.
Dad loved his church, family and community. He was raised in the First Baptist Church of Melrose, and became a deacon in 1972. He had a beautiful singing voice and loved leading music at church for many years. Oh, the memories of His voice!
Dad lived his life with purpose and perseverance. He was a builder who loved working with wood, refinishing furniture, he was a welder, loved mixing and running cement, working in the yard, and was always willing to help our mom, Nita with her many projects. Dad knew the value of hard work, and making the most of every day! After retiring from (40 years) at Farmers Electric he and mom moved to Clovis in 1996 where he continued to be active! We have often said, “We could never outwork our Dad and PapaJoe!”
Joe is survived by 2 daughters; Terri Curtis and husband (Blake) of Clovis; Sherri Carver and husband (Bruce) of Albuquerque.
4 Grandchildren; TJ and (Aundi) Curtis of Clovis, Andrew Curtis of Lubbock, Amanda (Hensal) Curtis of Lubbock, Danielle and (Chad) Corbin (Albuquerque), Heith (Andie) Carver of Albuquerque.
9 Great Grandchildren; Taydyn(17), Blake(14), Jett(12), Aynslee(9), Kate(11), Carter(7) Curtis; Charlie Corbin(3); Wyatt(6), Everly(3) Carver.
A few lines from one of Dad’s favorite Gospel Hymns; “Many things about tomorrow, I don’t seem to understand, but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand.”
We will celebrate and honor our Dad and Papa Joe on Thursday, February 11, 2:00 pm, Melrose Cemetery. Friends and loved one are welcome, but we respect and honor your decision regarding Covid 19.
From our families, thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Memorial contributions can be made to First Baptist Church, Melrose New Mexico.