Dr. Edward F. Richards

Dr. Edward F. Richards, 93, died on the 29th of July 2023 at Hope Health Center. Edward was born on the 27th of June 1930 in Providence, RI. He was a son of the late Wilfred and Anna (Deery) Richards. 

He was a proud graduate of Providence College and Harvard University where he achieved a Doctor of Optometry degree. He later opened his own practice, Atwood Vision Center located in Johnston, RI. Edward was a Korean War Air Force veteran, he served from 1952 through 1953 where he was stationed in Tripoli, Africa. He belonged to an exclusive group known as the Tripoli Trotters.

He married the late Linda (Interlandi) Richards on the 4th of September 1960. They were married for 49 years. They raised three children. He was a father to Karen Stewart Jackson and husband Gregory Jackson, Gina McMillan and husband John McMillan, Kevin Richards and wife Roberta Richards. He was a grandfather to Ryan Richards, Kiley Richards, Taylor Stewart, as well as Jennifer Mahoney and husband Jon Mahoney. He was a great-grandfather to Amelia Mahoney, Jack Mahoney, and Jaylen Stewart. He was the brother of John Richards, and the late Donald Richards. 

Dr. Richards was a devoted family man, medical practitioner, and war veteran. He enjoyed spending time with family, watching the Patriots, playing cards, reading, education, visiting the local beaches, playing golf, and painting. He was an astounding conversationalist, and an extremely animated man. He had a sense of humor that could make anyone laugh, and his smile lit up an entire room. He was a kind soul, with nothing but the best intentions of those around him. He strived to ensure everyone he loved was cared for and protected. He was a confident, charismatic, intelligent, and strong man who has left an unforgettable mark on all our hearts. He will not be remembered in vain but will be remembered by the lasting effect he had on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. His memory will live on throughout generations to come as provided by his family. We hope that he is resting peacefully with the love of his life, Linda, as they watch down on us from heaven. 

His funeral will begin on Friday, August 4 at 8:45 AM from the "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home, 600 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Mary Mother of Mankind Church, North Providence. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Highland Memorial Park Cemetery, Johnston. VISITATION Thursday, August 3 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM in the Funeral Home. 

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