Beatrice “Bea” June Richards, 86

Beatrice “Bea” June Richards, 86, of Stevens Point, died peacefully on Oct. 8, 2024.

Bea was born April 9, 1938, in Avenal, California, to the late George and Lucille (née Daggs) Bowman. She spent her early years in Avenal before her family relocated to Reno, Nevada, where she attended Sparks High School.

In high school, Bea met Gerald Richards, and the two were married on June 27, 1954. They had four children: Steve, Terry, Cathey, and Sharon. Bea worked as a certified nursing assistant and later helped Gerald operate their dairy farm, a restaurant and bakery, and manage properties. After retirement, the couple moved to Flora, Illinois, before settling in Wisconsin, where Bea remained until her death.

Bea took pride in being a homemaker, providing a warm and supportive home for her family. She also had a creative spirit, expressing herself through crocheting and other crafts. Gardening brought her peace, and she was a dedicated volunteer at Care Wear and the local senior center.

She is survived by her husband, Gerald; her children, Stephen Richards, Terry (Mary Grudzinski) Richards, Cathey (Kris) Hankison, and Sharon (Brad) Elmore; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and her sisters, Janice Turner and Betty Murray. She is further survived by many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Bea’s honor to Care Wear (CareWear.org) or the Stevens Point Police Department Canine Unit, 933 Michigan Ave., Stevens Point, WI 54481.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at Shuda Funeral Chapel, 3200 Stanley St., Stevens Point. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Plover Cemetery.