Age 91, New Market, Va.
Randall Hunter Richards, Sr., affectionately known as “Papa” and “Ranny,” passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Page Memorial Hospital in Luray, Virginia.
Born on January 5, 1934, Randall was the fifth of nine children of the late Edgar “Bud” and Evelyn Cave Richards. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Gloria Richards (Tony); brothers Edgar Richards Jr., Paul Richards, and Charles “Wayne” Richards; and his sister, Jeanette Gochenour.
Randall lived a full and vibrant life. For 20 years, he worked as a professional auctioneer. A talented and master seamster, he managed several clothing manufacturing plants, including Aileen, Perfection Garment, Jefferson Apparel, and Lovingston Manufacturing. Following retirement, he enjoyed a second career as a meat cutter at the Woodstock Walmart, where he worked for 10 years.
Randall was a family man at heart, known for his thoughtful gestures, especially his cherished tradition of singing “Happy Birthday” over the phone to loved ones. He found joy in simple pleasures — walking, riding his stationary bike, playing solitaire, camping, and spending time by the pool with his grandchildren. One of his favorite pastimes was sitting on the porch with his wife, Georgeanna, the love of his life for 54 years. A devout Christian, Randall faithfully read his Bible daily until his vision required it to be read to him.
Randall is survived by his devoted wife, Georgeanna Salyards Richards, whom he married on January 28, 1971. He is also survived by his children: Cynthia Smith (Bill), Evelyn Mongold (John), Randall Hunter Richards Jr. (Phyllis), Tony Blosser, and Randi Richards-Lutz (Paul). His legacy includes 10 grandchildren: Melissa (Jeannie), Stevie, Justin, C.J., Craig Hunter, Hayleigh, Jill, Kaitlin, Hunter, and Walker; and 10 great-grandchildren: Lillian, Stevie, Blake, Lexi, Lucas, Stryker, Kaymen, Riley, Waylon Hunter, and Noah.
Randall is also survived by his sisters: Wanda Crouch (the late Porky), Deloris Roe (Mike), Sharon Doe (Bob), and Katie Evans (the late Reggie); along with a large extended family of 18 nieces and nephews, 42 great-nieces and nephews, 62 great-great-nieces and nephews, and eight great-great-great-nieces and nephews.
A time of prayer will be held at the Bradley Funeral Home in Luray at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025, followed by a funeral procession to his graveside service at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in New Market. The service will be officiated by Pastor Glen Turner and Pastor Quentin Parlett. All are invited to gather afterward for fellowship and food at The Yellow Barn in Quicksburg.
Pallbearers include Galen Richards, Chris Richards, Bobby Doe, Chrissy Richards, Craig Richards, Jack Gruninger, John Dodson, Rudy Gochenour, Rodney Blume, and honorary pallbearers Andy Owen and Steve Richards.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hallie and Helen Lutz, The Culpeper, Whispering Pines, Blue Ridge Hospice, and especially the compassionate nurses of Page Memorial Hospital.
Memorial contributions, in his honor, may be made to the CTEC (Culpeper Technical Education Center) Scholarship Fund, founded by Papa’s grandson, Hunter.
Arrangements are being handled by The Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.
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