Mary Elizabeth Fleming Richardson was born on July 30, 1933, in Hugo, Oklahoma. She lived in Hugo until 1942 and attended most of her school years in Paris, Texas.
On June 28, 1952, Mary married George Ray Richardson in Lamar County, Texas. Together, they welcomed their son, Robert Ray Richardson, on April 27, 1954. Her family was the center of her life, and she treasured the memories they made together.
Mary worked in the garment industry for many years, sewing for Munsingwear from 1964 until 1988. She later worked for Hollywood Vassarette and Units. Her sewing skills were also a gift she shared with others. At church, she enjoyed sewing alongside the ladies, making quilts and throws.
On November 9, 2000, Mary moved to Kermit, Texas, where she attended First Baptist Church. She enjoyed helping in the kitchen for holiday meals, Vacation Bible School, and special occasions. She especially looked forward to meeting at Dairy Queen once a week for a special outing with friends.
Mary loved camping and fishing. After she retired, she enjoyed fishing with her dad, and together they won several BASS tournaments. Those times spent outdoors and the memories made with her dad were treasured parts of her life.
Mary also loved making special foods for family and friends. At Christmas, she enjoyed making chocolate and rock candy. Her Thanksgiving dressing and pecan pies were favorites. She especially loved the spring and summer seasons.
Her favorite song was “The Lighthouse,” a song that held a special place in her heart.
On November 9, 2022, Mary left Kermit and returned to Paris, Texas, where she lived at Legend Nursing Home.
Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Ray Richardson; her son, Robert Ray Richardson; her grandson, Jarrod Richardson; her infant sister, Minnie; her brothers, Jack Fleming and Wilton Fleming; and her parents, Pauline and Harold Fleming.
She is survived by her brother, Milton Fleming and his wife, Karon; and Linda, wife of her late brother Wilton; along with other family members and loved ones who will cherish her memory.
Mary passed away on September 26, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, faith, family, hard work, and treasured memories. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her skilled hands, her love of the outdoors, her devotion to her church, and the many ways she brought people together.
Her legacy lives on in the quilts she made, the meals she prepared, the fishing memories she shared, and the love she gave so freely to those around her.
A memorial service honoring Mary’s life will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Fry-Gibbs Funeral Home 730 Clarksville Street Paris, Texas 75460
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Mary’s life and cherish the memories she leaves behind.
Online condolences may be sent to the Richardson family by visiting www.fry-gibbs.com
