Nancy O. Richards passed away peacefully at home on July 13th after just celebrating her 89th birthday a few days prior.
Nancy grew up in Marcellus and graduated from Marcellus High School in 1952. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Cornell University in 1956. After graduating from Cornell, she married Elmer Richards in August of 1956 and taught Home and Careers at Homer High School for a year.
What ensued was Elmer Richards and Sons Dairy farm, a successful dairy farm in Skaneateles that is currently being run by the second and third generations Nancy kept busy with calf chores, baling hay and bookwork, amongst the other demands of raising a family and running a farm, but always managed to prepare a family meal at noon for everyone to enjoy.
Despite her early start to every day, she always made time to visit with friends, family, and especially her grandchildren with her kitchen table serving as the family gathering point. Nancy was an amazing soul who always had a smile on her face and an unforgettable laugh that just made you feel good inside
Nancy was predeceased by her husband Elmer in 1994. Nancy’s legacy is not the dairy farm she built with Elmer but the family she leaves behind.
She is survived by her four children, Craig (Rhonda), Jim (Peg), Sue (John Duppert) and Brenda (Chris). Ten grandchildren, Chris (Anna), Marcus (Anna), Cassie (Paul Mead), Eric (Erika), Pete (Karen), Michael, Nancy, Sarah, Connor and Alex. Ten great- grandchildren, John, Lydia, Grace, Sadie, Paige, Elmer, Emma, Evan, Ty and James. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Eleanor Pearsall and several nieces and nephews. Our deepest gratitude goes to her amazing health care providers, Dee, Pearl, Donna, Nicole, Jessica, Jessica and Linda.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 18, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to S.A.V.E.S or the Skaneateles Fire Department.
To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
