Robert Vincent Richards Sr. also known as “Bob,” worked for the city of Philadelphia for 35 years.
He died July 3, 2012. He was 82.
Richards was born to Hilda Soso Robinson on June 15, 1930, in Toronto, Canada. He was the youngest of two children.
Richards was educated in the Philadelphia public school system. He did not finish high school but later earned his GED. He attended Spring Garden Institute of Technology where he received a degree in automotive technology.
Richards was baptized and confirmed at Calvary Episcopal Church under the ministry of Father Thomas Logan. He later joined Wissinoming Presbyterian Church under the ministry of Rev. Anderson Porter where he was an elder until his death.
Richards worked for the City of Philadelphia from 1950 until he retired in 1985. He began as a sanitation worker. He later worked in the Recreation Department and finally, as an auto mechanic.
He met and fell in love with Ruth Jones and they were wed on January 29, 1949. From this union he had two children, Robert Richards Jr. and Patricia Richards Whitaker.
Richards was involved in many activities. He was an elder in his church. He volunteered at Presbyterian hospital. He took Tai Chai classes and was an involved and active neighbor in his community.
Richards had five great loves; his family, his church, Tai Chai, shooting pool and reading. They kept him busy and active to the end.
“Anyone who knew Bob will always remember the big smile he always greeted you with and his hearty laugh,” his family said.
“He was tight with a dollar and frequently used his coupons and asked for senior discounts. If you needed him he was always willing and available to help even at 82 years old.”
He is survived by his son, Robert Richards Jr.; his daughter, Patricia Whitaker (Melvin); sister, Gwendolyn Soso Jones; his grandsons, Robert Richards III, Marcus Whitaker and Matthew Whitaker; his great-grandchildren, Isabella Richards and Mason Whitaker and his extended family; his companion, Gladys Tucker; son, Howard Tucker; grandsons, Max, Jesse and Alex Tucker; and other relatives and friends.
Services will be held July 13. Viewing will be held at 10 a.m. at Wissinoming Presbyterian Church, 5825 Torresdale Avenue. Services will follow at 11. Burial is in West Laurel Hill Cemetery.
Wood Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
