Mrs. Nannie Lee Richards

Nannie Lee Richards was born July 23, 1932 in Pearson, Mississippi to the union of the late Henry Holden Jr. and Estella Mannery Holden. Nannie was the twelfth of thirteen children. Nannie grew up on a farm in Mississippi. As a youth she enjoyed sports, and played on her high school basketball and softball teams. She acquired her strong work ethic from her time spent on the farm, and often fondly reminisced about the scent of her father's smoked hams that could be smelled from miles away. Nannie moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the early 1950s. In 1955 she met her husband, the late Taylor B. Richards Jr. The two were united in holy matrimony on August 31, 1957. Three children were born to this union, Delbert, Raynard and Portia. Nannie and Taylor's marriage lasted nearly 40 years, until his death in 1997. Nannie's strong work ethic led to a lengthy and distinguished career. She worked a a nurse's aid at the Milwaukee County Mental Health Complex, retiring after thirty-three years of service. She was extremely dedicated to her job often workine overtime and double shifts when needed. Nannie enjoyed several hobbies such a bowling, coupon clipping, rebating, traveling to family reunions and playing cards . She loved a competitive game of bid whist with her family. Nannie was an avid sports fan, supporting the Brewers, Bucks, and Packers. However, one of her greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren. Nannie was a servant who helped and cared for others. She cared for her elderly father, who lived with Nannie's family during his latter years. She also cared for her older sister Doshia, while she, Doshia, was suffering with dementia. Nannie also volunteered at the St. Benedict Church, where she fed the homeless and hungry. Nannie served in ministry at her home church, Calvary Baptist, where she participated in feeding meals to the neighborhood residents and assisted with the youth ministry. She served faithfully for many years, until the disease of Dementia overwhelmed her. Most importantly, Nannie established a personal relationship with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, serving Him faithfully. We are confident she is now with her Savior in paradise. Nannie leaves behind to celebrate her life three children: Delbert E.Fiancee Rozetta) Richards of Racine, Wisconsin, Raynard E. (Laura) Richards, and Portia D. (Byron) England both of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She also leaves to cherish her memory her loving sister Esther Sanders of Stafford, Virginia; a special niece Shirley Wood of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; five grandchildren; Mario, Marquis, Tamia, Tyrese, and Mykelle, three great grandchildren Jessenia, Azariah, Marquis Jr., and a host of nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends.

Mrs. Nannie Lee Richards

July 23, 1932 - September 9, 2017