LINDENWOOD – Miriam H. Richards, 94, died Saturday, March 9, 2019 in Serenity Hospice Home, Oregon. Born Sept. 6, 1924 in Lindenwood, the daughter of Claude and Viola (Elliott) Holmes and grew up on the family farm east of Lindenwood.
Married Bill Richards in 1942, leaving 4-H Club Congress to marry her airman sweetheart; he died March 13, 1975. "Miss You" was their song, appropriate for a young couple separated by WWII. After living in Idaho, Minnesota, California and other communities in Illinois, Miriam, Bill and their children returned to the home where she was born. She attended innumerable sporting events and musical performances, led 4-H clubs and was known for her fresh-baked sweet rolls and scatch-made doughnuts.
After a career in banking, Miriam volunteered at Eswood Elementary School for 21 years, finding great satisfaction in helping youngsters learn to read. She was active in a number of organizations, including Ogle County Hospice, Business and Professional Women and Homemakers. She was a member of Lindenwood Union Church and also attended Monroe Center Community Church. She enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles, reading, knitting (and giving away) afghans, playing cards, cheering on the Fighting Illini basketball team and growing flowers, especially iris, in her large yard.
Miriam is survived by her six children: Connie Richards, Harlan (Diane) Richards, Laurel Singleton, Brian (Kathy) Richards, J.R. (Trish) Richards and Lynn (Ken) Burch; 9 grandchildren, ranging in age from 20 to 48; 9 great grandchildren; sister, Ruth Moeller; and four nieces and their families.
Also predeceased by her parents.
A Celebration of Life will be held later this spring. Memorial donations in honor of Miriam may be made to Serenity Hospice & Home (P.O. Box 462 Oregon, IL 61061) or Eswood Elementary School (PO Box 7 Lindenwood, IL 61049). Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, Oregon assisted the family with arrangements.
