‘Tommy’ Richards

ATHENS – Thomas Edward “Tommy” Richards, 78, died Monday, January 17, 2011.

A native of Clarke County, he was the son of the late Thomas Wetzel and Matilda Bancroft. Mr. Richards was preceded in death by a son, Thomas J. (Jeff) Richards.

He operated a State Farm Agency in Athens for over 40 years, where he was recognized and rewarded many times for his achievements with awards and company trips. He was also a member of the Greensboro Masonic Lodge, where he received his 50-year membership pin. He was the fourth generation great-grandson of President Thomas Jefferson and a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

Survivors include his wife, Charlene Ruark Richards, Athens; sons, Dr. Bart Richards and wife Suzanna, Jefferson, and Keith and Kathy Richards, Orlando, Fla.; grandchildren, Michelle Richards, David Richards and wife Jenna, Dane Richards, Clay Richards and Tucker Richards.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, January 23, at 2 p.m., at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church with Father Robert Salamone officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park with Masonic graveside rites.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday, January 22, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The family asks that memorials be made to the Atlanta Area Alzheimer’s Association, 1925 Century Blvd., Suite 10, Atlanta, GA 30345.

The family would like to thank the staff at BJC Nursing Home and The Alzheimer’s Care of Commerce for their care and support while Mr. Richards was at their facility.

Bernstein Funeral Home, Athens, is in charge of arrangements.