From Wayne County Record
February 1945

Lilly  May Richards, daughter of Wm. And Mary (Dickey) Richards was born in Wayne County November 18, 1885 and passed away at her home, 704 W. Chatauqua February 13, 1945 at the age of 59. She remained in Wayne County until some twenty-three years ago when she moved to Carbondale with her mother and sister, her father having passed away a number of years ago.

On coming to Carbondale, Mss Richards entered college and after three years there she was employed by the Lincoln School, where she remained until the time of her death.

Some forty-four years ago Miss Richards made a public profession of faith in Christ and united with the Arrington Prairie Church in Wayne County. After moving to Carbondale she united with the Walnut St. Church where she continued an active and faithful member until her death.

Miss Richards s survived by one brother, Thomas Richards of Sims; two sisters, Miss Nancy Richards of Charleston, Ill., and Mrs. J.W. Collins of Huntley, Ill., along with a number of nephews and nieces.

Following the service at the Walnut St. Church the body was returned to Wayne County for a short service February 15 at the Arrington Prairie Church with the pastor, Rev. Harold Mayberry in charge. Burial was in the Dickeyville cemetery.

Such a beautiful life has been called from our midst.
A soul full of Christ and Hs love
A leader, counselor, and comforter was she
Ever praying and looking above
But God had His mansion all ready
A crown was awaiting her there
She has answered the call
Come up higher
The presence of Jesus to share
Today she is visiting in glory and
Singing with those gone before
She will watch and wait for our coming
To that bright everlasting shore.