Phyllis Marie Richards

Phyllis Marie Richards, 79, of New Buffalo died at her home on Saturday, May 7, 2011, surrounded by her family. Arrangements have been entrusted with Sommerfeld Chapel of New Buffalo.Phyllis was born November 6, 1931 in Traverse City, MI to James and Bertha (Wheelock) Williamson. She was a graduate of Traverse City High School (she played clarinet in the high school band), and later on in life attended Lake Michigan College and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science from Andrew's University in 1985. On May 20, 1950 she married Gary Franklin Richards. Phyllis worked various jobs. She was a switchboard operator for Bell Telephone Co.; she ran a day care center from her home; she was a school crossing guard, worked in the cafeteria, and was a substitute teacher in the New Buffalo schools. Phyllis loved to travel. She went to both Jordan and Egypt on archeology digs. She loved scrap booking. Phyllis was a member of the Business Professional Women's of Michigan City; a member of the Maple Grove United Methodist Church of New Carlisle, and was also a member of the church's Knit Wit Knitting Club. Phyllis is survived by her four sons-Dennis (Janice) Richards of New Buffalo, Douglas Richards of Michigan City, Allen Richards of LaPorte, and Daren (Tammy) Richards of South Bend; five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents-James and Bertha, and her husband Gary. A Memorial Service will be held in Traverse City at a later date. Visitation is in New Buffalo at the Sommerfeld Chapel of New Buffalo on Tuesday, May 10 from 5:00-8:00PM. A Prayer Service will be on Tuesday evening at 7:46PM with Rev. Robert Raschka officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Maple Grove UMC of New Carlisle, IN. Friends wishing to leave a message of condolence may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com