Grace Richardson

Our beloved mother, Grace Richardson, was born on July 30, 1931, in Akron, Ohio, to I.T. and Mary Eagle. She departed this earthly life on October 30, 2026, to be with our Lord and Savior. Although our hearts are saddened by her passing, we find comfort in knowing that she has entered into eternal rest. Her life was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, education, friendship, and unconditional love.

Grace was a proud resident of Akron, Ohio, for many years before making Las Vegas her home. She attended Akron Public Schools and continued her education, ultimately earning a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Akron.

Education was more than a profession to Grace; it was her passion and calling. She dedicated 20 years to educating and inspiring young minds throughout the Akron Public School system. After retiring, her love for teaching brought her back to the classroom for another 11 years at Resnik Elementary School in Fairlawn, Ohio, where she specialized in Mathematics and English. Her dedication, knowledge, and commitment to her students left a lasting impression on countless lives.

Grace was a devoted member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church for many years, where her faith remained an important part of her life. She was also a proud and dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, for an incredible 49 years. Her sisterhood was a treasured part of her life, and she especially enjoyed traveling and creating wonderful memories with her sorority sisters.

Grace embraced the simple pleasures that made life special. She was an avid reader, with James Patterson among her favorite authors, and loved listening to the smooth, soulful music of Luther Vandross. She also had a passion for baking, and her homemade treats were a special expression of her love. Those fortunate enough to enjoy her creations will forever remember the special touch she brought to the kitchen.

Above all, Grace cherished her family. One of her favorite traditions was hosting family gatherings every Fourth of July at her home. These celebrations brought everyone together to enjoy delicious food, laughter, and precious time with one another. Even after relocating to Las Vegas, those family traditions remained a treasured part of her legacy. Her home was a place where family gathered, bonds grew stronger, and love was always present.

Grace’s legacy is one of faith, perseverance, education, sisterhood, and unconditional love. She will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her commitment to her students, her love of travel, her generous spirit, and the countless special moments she created with those she loved. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she leaves behind will forever live in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by parents, Mary and I.T. Eagle; her sister, Shirley Smith; her adopted sister, Shirley Stewart, affectionately known as “Little Shirley”; her nephew, Elmer “Mickey” Smith; and her son-in-law, Richard Blair.

She leaves to cherish her memory loving children, Vikilyn Thompson, Natalie Richardson-Blair of Akron, Ohio; Joanne Richardson, Sarita (Robert) Joseph of Las Vegas, Nevada; Terry (Ann) Richardson of Lewisville, Tennessee and Thelma (Stanley) Washington of Ocala, Florida. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, the father of her children, Nathaniel Richardson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and her beloved sorority sisters.

Though Grace has answered her Heavenly Father’s call, her love will continue to surround us. We will remember her through the lessons she taught, the traditions she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless memories she created.

Her earthly journey has ended, but her legacy of love will live on through the generations she leaves behind.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Ivy Beyond the Wall Ceremony will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 10:30 am at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 327 Cuyahoga St. Akron, Oh 44310. Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 12:00 noon and funeral service will immediately follow. Internment Glendale Cemetery.