Joe Allen Richards

Joe Allen Richards, 87, passed away January 20, 2016, at his home in Gladewater, Texas.

Joe was born near Celeste on March 3, 1928, to Alton P. Richards and Ruth Maier Richards. He graduated in 1945 from Commerce High School. He attended East Texas State Teachers College where he received his bachelor and masters degrees. Joe's working career consisted of teaching, administration and consulting for TEA over a span of 29 years. After retiring, he owned and operated a blueberry farm on Highway 50 between Commerce and Campbell. He was active in Ham Radio, Airstream Club and church activities, including song leading for the Campbell Church of Christ.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ethelyn Jean Hume Richards; his children: son, Allen Richards and wife Kay of Seabrook; daughter, Ruth Davis and husband Brad of Gladewater; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and, a brother, Wilton M. Richards of Carthage.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2016, at Jones-Walker & Son Funeral Home beginning at 9:30 a.m. Due to inclement weather, committal services will be held at Jones-Walker & Son Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m.

A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, January 23, 2016, at the North Loop Church of Christ, 1000 NE Loop 485, Gladewater, TX, 75647 at 3:00 p.m. Visitation will begin at 2:30 p.m.

The family has requested no flowers. Memorials may be made to Arms of Hope, 21300 State Highway 16 North, Medina, TX 78055 (830) 522-2200 or The American Cancer Society.

Visitation will begin at 2:30 p.m. with Memorial Services beginning at 3:00 p.m.

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