Thurla Mae (Barnard) Richards

Thurla Mae Richards passed away peacefully at her home on March 31, 2022 in Lincoln, Illinois.

She was born September 5, 1929 in Alton to Russell Allen and Catherine Elizabeth McGregor Barnard. She grew up in Athensville and graduated from Greenfield High School in 1947.  She married Robert W. Richards on December 24, 1948 in Springfield. He preceded her in death in January 2004 after celebrating 55 years of marriage.

She was a CNA at Dirksen House from 1968 until 2001 when retired after 33 years of service. She enjoyed gardening, reading books, bird watching and playing with her cats. She was of Baptist faith.

Surviving are three daughters, Jo Leckrone of Southern View, June Phillips of Springfield, Jill (Donald) Dennis of Lincoln; two sons, Robert Jr., and Rick Richards, both of Springfield; five grandchildren, Allen (Ronda) Griffith, Jr. of Livingston, TX, Emily Ray of Malvern, AR, Steven (Sumer) Phillips of Springfield, Keith Jones of Knoxville, IA, Brandy (Josh) Burton of Springfield, and Andrew Schwarting of Springfield; six great-grandchildren; three great-greatgrandchildren; numerous step-grandchildren; numerous step-greatgrandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, and sister-in-law, Imogene Lovekamp of White Hall.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Russell and Catherine McGregor Barnard; her husband, Robert Richards, Sr.; a daughter, Judy Richards; brother, Coover “Barney” Barnard and twin sisters, Lola Barnard Vlahon and Laura Barnard Reynolds.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Per her request, no funeral services will be held.  A private family burial will occur at Camp Butler National Cemetery at a later date.  Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.

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