Mary Kathryn Richards

                      Our Mommy’s Journey of Life

Mary Kathryn Richards was born on July 22, 1924 to the late Eva Mildred and Emmitt Richards. She is the middle sister to the late Bernice Fillmore and Eva.

Mary was born and raised in Washington, D.C in Georgetown. She attended Stevens Elementary School, Francis Junior High School and Armstrong High school, where she studied Nursing. She later became an employee with the District of Columbia Public School system as a dietician. She served in her position for 30 years before she retired in 1988.

Mary raised many children. She gave realistic advice and comfort to all that she loved. She was a woman who could adapt to any environment. She was a pioneer.

She enjoyed music (especially Marvin Gaye), she loved doing her Beyonce’ dance and she enjoyed the theatre. She believed that laughter was the healer.

Mary was a phenomenal cook. She filled Emerson Street’s corner with the aroma of fresh bread, cakes, pies and of course, her famous Fish Fry Fridays. 

After returning to the workplace in 1995, she became a Classroom Aide at the University of the District of Columbia’s Early Childhood Center. She later presented with an Honorary degree in Early Childhood Development in 1999.

She leaves behind her three living children, Portia Simmons, Denise Richards and Gary Richards (Buttons) and the late Eric Richey. Five grandchildren, Gary Jr., Kenya Raymond, TJ, Stephen and Calvin Richards. Seven great grands and a host of extended family and friends.