Unconditional Love
Alvin! Richie! My friend! My love! He was a devoted husband and father. He loved his family and protected and cared for them at all cost. My husband was a man with a big heart. He was kind, compassionate, and VERY giving. Sometimes he would give what belongs to the family forgetting it’s ours. When he got the first major stroke, I felt like a part of me was lost, as he was the one who did all the business transactions and I didn’t know what to do. However, his mental capacities were not affected and so he was able to function as usual. We were like peas in a pod so it was difficult to go places and do things without him. He never wanted anyone to see him in that disabled state so he chose to stay home most of the time. I miss him but God knows best. His kind and loving ways will always be with me. Rest in peace my husband, my friend and my love. You have fought a good fight, finished your course, and kept the faith.
We Salute You Dad While I lived with my grandmother in Anchovy, Jamaica, my father would come by and spend time with us. He would never come empty handed; he always had a gift. He advised me that I should pay attention to my schoolwork. When I became a young adult, he was the one who introduced me to Mr. Morris and Mr. Glen for their plumbing training and bought me my first set of tools. I truly appreciate what he did for me. Rest in peace, Pops! Devon
Our father was a man of few words, which when spoken left an indelible impact. He loved to pray and sing and would joke that Ann got her singing voice from him. He would always encourage us to be the best we can be, never to give up, and to always treat others with the utmost respect. From his experience as a Human Resource Manager, he would remind us that first impressions always last. Our dad would make the best of every situation. Two of his favorite mantras were: When life throws you lemons, make lemonade…enjoy the drink and No use crying over spilt milk…just mop it up and get another glass. Daddy was never very expressive in church but, in his own quiet way, he lived an exemplary life of faith in God. He loved, cared for, and served others. We love and miss you daddy. The days ahead won’t be the same without you. Take your rest… Your girls – Jacquie, Ann, Kadian, and Julie.
It has been a pleasure having you to give us advice and being there so we could talk to you about just about anything. It was bittersweet being your nurse. We would have preferred if you were not ill but we were thankful for the opportunity to serve you. Daddy Richie, we are indebted to you for so much but most of all for giving us your precious daughters. Thanks for everything. You are now at rest – Chris & Wendell
Y
ou are never prepared for the passing of a loved one, especially a parent. You believe you have the extra time to spend with them, to laugh, to have more chats and to take extra special care of them. You presume the time will never come and with each day you expect another. Then suddenly, it hits! The call is received! Your world instantly feels shattered as you are only left with memories and visions of someone who filled your entire life. The Bishop of Geneva, Saint Frances de Sales wrote, “Nothing is so strong as gentleness. Nothing is so gentle as real strength.” This quote epitomizes the nature of Alvin Richards. Even in his last days, his voice and demeanor were still gentle while fighting to remain with us. Alvin Alberga Richards was born on December 22nd, 1944, to Austin and Esmoralda Richards in Anchovy, St James, Jamaica. He was the only child for his mother and a bit spoilt. His father had three sons - Frank (deceased), Noel (resides in Georgia) and Alvin. All the boys grew up together with his mother and father. Alvin’s father passed away very early in his life, while in his teens, and his mother passed in his thirties. He had a wholesome childhood and was greatly loved by his parents. As a child, his family attended the Mt. Carey Anglican Church where he was an ‘Altar Boy.’ Later, in 1978, Alvin was baptized at the Wildman Street United Pentecostal Church in Kingston. He was a member of Pentecostal Assemblies of The World and Holiness Born Again Church in Jamaica. On relocating to the United States, he was a member of Pentecostal Tabernacle and United Church of Jesus Christ Apostolic. In his early childhood, he attended the Barrack Road Primary School and then graduated high school from the Northwestern Academy in Montego Bay, Jamaica. He furthered his studies at the University of the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Administration and his Associate’s degree in Civil Law. He was a diligent and astute student. Although he had a quiet demeanor, Alvin was extremely likeable. To quote his wife: “He was friends will all his tutors – and who did he not know?” Alvin Richards started his professional life at the Public Works Department in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and then the Customs Department. He later worked for the Jamaica Trade Board in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce as an Officer. He advanced and grew in his career and was promoted to Human Resource
Administrator for the Ministry of Agriculture in Montego Bay. Following this appointment, he finally moved to the Ministry of Finance as the Compliance Officer where he worked until his major illness, after which he retired. He was highly respected among his staff and superiors. In 1971, Ettie Hinds (deceased), who was Ivorie’s best friend, introduced Alvin to her. She claims that she did not really like him. However, he was intrigued by her, and they started dating and eventually they got married on January 27th, 1973, in Montego Bay, Jamaica. For 50 years they were like ‘peas in a pod’. The union produced 3 daughters, Avril, Julie-Ann and Kadi along with his first child - Devon, and his wife’s first child Jacquie from previous relationships. During the marriage he adopted countless kids – friends of his girls and others – Maria, Ms. Williams and Hopie are only a few to mention. His love and care had no bounds. When his girls were young, he would go to their school to have lunch with them. He met with their teachers and was totally involved with their schoolwork and school activities. He loved and adored his nephews and nieces although he never saw them as often as he would like. His final love was for his grandchildren (Britney, Karissa, and Kaden). He doted on them and loved them. You would see his eyes light up as they approached him. His family was his world; he was totally devoted and dedicated to them. Alvin Alberga was a very active member in various civic organizations and was appointed board member in several board of governors. He was also a Board Member for Mt. Alvernia High School where his girls attended. This information was unknown to his wife until she had an issue with the principal – Sister Joan Claire. Two determined ladies were on each side and a gentle soul in the middle – you can just image the scene! Of course, it ended amicably. Alvin was a soft-spoken gentleman: intelligent, reliable, loving, kind, and always thinking of others. It was never too much for him to extend a helpful hand, give advice, or his time. When you first met him he appeared very quiet but when you got to know him, he could be a chatterbox. The family enjoyed listening to him discuss Jamaica’s politics with his cousin Suzette when she visited. He was very approachable and selfless – going the extra mile for others, even the ones that treated him or his family badly. His motto was, “I am never surprised at the behavior and attitude of people, I expect it. Don’t be upset, that’s how people are.” He held no grudges. Alvin was a man with a big heart, who would give his last dime, or what should be for his family, to someone in need. He gave good counsel on varied aspects of life to many of us and he was never wrong. There are many persons whose testimonies of his help would have us here for a long, long time. His humor will not go amiss as he could be very funny. Julie recalls that while showering he would call out all their names, Ann! Julie! Kadi! and he would sing ‘Raise the banner, little higher, yehim, yehim’. As a running joke, he would always say, “Ann got her singing from me.” In December 1993, Alvin became ill with a stroke and since then he has struggled with various health issues until he succumbed on the 25th of August 2021. The scripture in Ecclesiastes 3:1 states: “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Alvin Richards has completed his purpose and left an indelible mark on our lives. Alvin Alberga Richards was a husband, father, grandfather, brother and a friend to many. He will be remembered for his compassion for people, acts of service to others, the love he had for his family, and his dedication for their wellbeing. He loved God and I believe he is looking down on us with warmth and thankfulness in his eyes. We love him and will miss him dearly. We look forward to meeting him again with our Savior. May his soul rest in peace.
Worship & The Word We Have An Anchor
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, When the clouds unfold their wings of strife? When the strong tides lift and the cables strain, Will your anchor drift, or firm remain? Chorus We have an anchor that keeps the soul Steadfast and sure while the billows roll, Fastened to the Rock which cannot move, Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love. It is safely moored, ’twill the storm withstand, For ’tis well secured by the Savior’s hand; And the cables, passed from His heart to mine, Can defy that blast, through strength divine. It will firmly hold in the floods of death, When the waters cold chill our latest breath; On the rising tide it can never fail, While our hopes abide within the Veil. When our eyes behold through the gath’ring night The city of gold, our harbor bright, We shall anchor fast by the heav’nly shore, With the storms all past forevermore.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
The Celebration Moderator – Pastor Mark Sanders Processional
Just Over in the Glory Land
Praise & Worship
Ann Richards (daughter) and Praise Team
Welcome Pastor Mark Sanders Prayer
Bishop Raymond Warren
Scripture Reading Lorraine Richards-Hunter Psalm 90:1-17 Leisha Richards-Alfred (nieces)
Congregation We have An Anchor
Hymn
Scripture Reading Dacia Davis (niece)
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Karissa Brown (granddaughter) Tribute by Video Noel Richards (brother) Reflections
Cecil Davis (brother-in-law) Former Deputy Mayor of Montego Bay Bishop Izett Scott (former pastor) Nieces & Nephews Selection Ann Richards (daughter) and Praise Team Reflections Children Adopted Children Grandchildren Adopted Grandchildren/Great Grandchildren Eulogy
Jacquie McLennon (daughter)
Selection
Ann Richards (daugther) and Praise Team
Message Pastor Mark Sanders Prayer for the family Recessional
Bishop Izett Scott Instrumental
To Our Grandpa My grandfather showed love through his actions, and when he chose to speak it was impactful. He would randomly call our names out loud as if we were lost in the house. We’d coming running just to see a grin on his face & sparkle in his eyes from cracking up on the inside. He fought long and hard, and wore his armor well. Good and bad days, we couldn’t tell. I loved mi abuelo, although, I never always showed it in the best ways. He taught me unconditional love & to always give praise because you never know when it’ll be your last day. I hope when he looks down he’s proud of everything I turned out be. Still the singing lil’bee who now lives courageously by watching her abuelo triumph tremendously. Britney Edwards
Our grandpa was a kind and funny person. He would always smile and laugh when we came in his room. Sometimes when our grandma went outside, we would get whatever he wanted until she got back. We would stay in the room with him to keep him company. We will also remember him as a handsome, kind, loving, funny, and a great Grandpa. My brother and I were blessed to have you. We will always love you Grandpa… Karissa and Kaden
In His Heart
“Family isn’t made from blood, it’s weaved by love.”
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to stay with you and to be myself. Thank you for being a blessing in my life. Rest in peace and see you on the other side. Raymond Waite - Adopted Son
LIFE LESSONS By Joanna Fuchs
You may have thought I didn’t see, Or that I hadn’t heard, Life lessons that you taught to me, But I got every word. Perhaps you thought I missed it all, And that we’d grow apart, But Dad, I picked up everything, It’s written on my heart. Without you, Dad, I wouldn’t be, The person I am today, You built a strong foundation, No one can take away. I’ve grown up with your values, And I’m very glad I did, So, here’s to you dear father, From your forever grateful kid. Lovingly submitted by Maria Hinds in memory of a “Dad” who was connected at the heart.
The day I met Mr. Richards was a day ordained of God; my employer became the Dad I needed. Mr. Richards was indeed a great dad. He was loving, peaceful, respectful to anyone he met, honest, and a man of quiet strength. His contribution to my life was life-changing as I have never been the same. I will always remember his smile, his kind words of encouragement, and him believing in me. Rest well “daddy” Richards, you will not be forgotten. Pearlene Hamilton
I have known Bro Richie for many years, he is like a dad to me. He does not talk a lot at times but when he does it was words of value and substance. He always saw the best in you and was open to help in whatever way he could. He was a family and loved his family very much. Bro Richie was an example for me, after work he would go by his wife’s shop and wait for her to be finish so she is would not alone. Bro and Sis Richie were inseparable. Rest in peace my friend. Glenroy Sharpe
Grandpa was very quiet but gave sound words. He would always ask if we are doing okay. I know a lot of people would not believe he was funny, mischievous and comical. We will miss him but we know he is in a better place. Rest Grandpa and we will see you on the other side. Amos & Family
Daddy, you have always been there for me, encouraging me and letting me know I can do it. You never treated me differently from your kids even though I was your cousin and not a daughter. I was happy to see you before you passed, to help mommy take care of you and get to talk with you for the last time. I will miss you but God knows what’s best for you. Over there you will be free and have no more sickness or pain. Love you daddy – Donna (Tasha)
Grandparents are one of our first connections; they’re a source of comfort and kindness from our early days. Like our parents, they lead us with wisdom, experience, and love. Lord, only you can take away this pain and mend our broken hearts. I am happy to know that grandpa is no longer in pain. I am truly going to miss your smile, but I will keep it in my heart and remember you with that big smile I would see whenever I visited. Grandpa, we love you and we know you are smiling down on us from heaven. Grandma, you are truly a virtuous woman. Thank you for being an example to us. I remind you of Revelation 21:4 - The Lord will wipe every tear from your eyes and Psalm 34:18 - The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. We say bye for now until we meet again. Veronica, Jody-Ann & Samantha
Bro Richie, we love you and miss you. You are in no more pain, there is no fear, but you are with God who called you home. Farewell, rest in peace. See you over yonder!! Nana, Christine and family
Memories “Our father to me bestowed, riches worth far more than gold.”
Daddy Richie was a quiet man but could be a firebird. I remember needing a hat to wear to a Tea Party. Mommy Richie has many fabulous hats and so I was soliciting a hat. I did not know that Daddy Richie overheard the conversation. The moment I stepped out of the room, I heard him in a rather strong tone of voice: “Sis Richie, don’t stay there and let Winsome come tief out yu hat dem.” Little did he know, I got the hat, wore it to the Tea Party and still own that hat today, and I didn’t steal it. Daddy Richie will be missed. He has always relished the good in life including family and friends. He loved his wife Sis Richie with every bone in his body. His visible affection overcame his usual reserve. He created a caring balance for his children and grandchildren. He never knowingly made an enemy. His sense of humor was never mean spirited, nor designed to hurt or humiliate. We will always remember that special smile, that caring heart, that warm embrace, and above all that sincere love. Daddy Richie’s memories will bring tears in our eyes today, but we will forever honor those memories someday with a smile. There will never be another one to replace him in our hearts. He shared with me his life, his home, and loved me NO LESS than his very own. Daddy Richie, you have ran the race, you have fought a good fight, and you have kept the faith. Our Gentle Giant has transitioned to be with the Lord. Rest in Peace Gentle Giant. Winsome Saunders & Family Alvin’s (Richie) life was a blessing filled with beautiful memories. Our hearts still ache to lose you but we know you’re in a better place free of pain and fear. I thank God, he made you our brother while you were here on earth. You’ll always have a special place in our hearts that no one else can fill. Sleep in peace brother until we meet again. Kingsley and Shirley Davis -brother-in-law
Losing a loved one is never easy. We wish we had more time to make more memories and to laugh and enjoy more milestones together. However, God saw it fit to call you home at this time. We are grateful for the times we’ve had with you and will hold you in our hearts forever. Love, Everad, Maureen, Monique, Robert, Tameika, Duhane and Dale.
Bro Richie, the man who walked tall and proud in the streets of Anchovy. Mr. Richie never complained, always kept a smile on his face. He was very intelligent, smart and never forgot anything. He used to remind me of my dad and childhood memories he stored in his brain over the years, things I did not even remember. I grew up with his beautiful daughters, Avril, Kadi-Ann, Julie-Ann and Jacquie, whom I still remain friends with over the years. I remember bringing him a steak dinner which he loved. He was an excellent cook. I did not get to bring him another streak meal since he had relocated to Okeechobee. Sleep on and take your everlasting rest. You will be greatly missed. From the Thomas family
A Gentle Giant Greetings to the officiating members of the clergy, the bereaved family members especially Ivorie, Alvin’s ever present and ever loving wife, his children: Devon, Jacquie, Avril (Ann), Julie-Ann, and Kadi-Ann; his grandchildren; Britney, Karissa and Kaden; other relatives, friends and well- wishers. I am expressing condolences and sympathy on the passing of my brother-inlaw, the late Alvin Richards. I do so on behalf of my wife Patsy, my daughter Dacia, my grandchildren Arielle and Tajae, also, my brother Kingsley and his wife Shirley, along with other relatives and friends. In my capacity as a former Mayor of Montego Bay, Jamaica, I wish also to express condolences from a host of staff and colleagues in the various Government Services where Alvin served across Jamaica for many years in various managerial positions. Alvin had an outstanding career as a civil servant and we, as a collective body, share with you the grief of his passing. “The clock of Life is wound but once and no man has the power to tell just when the hands will stop - at late or early hour” It is with mixed emotions that I offer this tribute to my brother-in-law, Alvin Richards, affectionately called, Richie. My emotion today is two-fold: it is one of sadness yet one of happiness. Sadness because we shall no longer share with Richie in this earthly life, but on the other hand it is one of happiness - happiness of having had the privilege to have known such a wonderful, intelligent, winsome and caring person. Richie was a confidant and friend to so many persons. The word “NO” was never in his vocabulary. A ready “Yes, man” would always be Richie’s response when you would ask for his help. Richie enjoyed having a good robust discussion and was very versed on almost every subject matter, be it politics or governmental affairs. In fact, politics and governmental affairs were his forte and Richie was always sought after for advice and consultations. Many in the political and legal professions in Jamaica have utilized Richie’s speech writing expertize. Then, there was the other Richie - a quiet, humble and decent human being, easy to get along with, always greeting you with a smile and a nod. Nothing bothered him and he bore no ill feelings towards anyone. For Richie it was simply “You live and let live” Richie’s driving skills were exceptional. For those of you who are familiar with driving from Ocho Rios to Kingston, in Jamaica, this drive, back then, was about six miles of hills and curves. Well, one day the family was on their way from Montego Bay to Kingston and Richie was at the wheel. Just as we reached Ocho Rios the car stuttered and sputtered and then shut down. Richie finally got the car restarted, however, it refused to move forward. Undaunted by this, Richie turned the car around put it in reverse and as cool as a cucumber Richie drove the car in reverse through the Ocho Rios road. We were scared to death yet intrigued and the only sound in the car was my sister, Ivorie saying “Oh Jesus, oh Jesus … Richie you are a mad man.” When we reached Moneague, the end of the hilly/curvy drive, Richie calmly turned the car around, put it in drive and with a grin which said “No problem man…where there is a will, there sure is a way...” Richie got us safely to Kingston. To the love of his life, his darling wife Ivorie, thank you for loving and caring for Richie for what seems to be a
lifetime. We have admired your faithful devotion and we will always cherish you for your unflinching love and care. Thanks to the four precious children you gave him. Ivorie, you are a virtuous woman. “Your children and grandchildren will call you blessed” Ivorie, we thank you for having been “The wind beneath Richie’s wings.” To the children – Devon, Jacquie, Avril, Julie Ann, Kadi Ann – his one prince and four princesses: Cherish your dad’s legacy and memories. Today you stand tall because of the giant of a man your dad was. You all know that he loved you and was proud to have you call him, dad. Your love and respect for him, is the admiration of many. He has left for you footprints in the sands of time. Walk wisely in those footprints. To his many relatives and friends we thank you for sharing his life with us. You made his journey worth the while by adding flavor to his walk here on earth. Now that he has gone the last mile of the way He has come to the close of his day We know that there are joys awaiting him Now that he has gone the last mile of the way. Walk good Richie, much respect and we will always love you. May your soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon you. Cecil and Patcena Davis – brother-in-law
The essence of a man and the life he lived is shown through those around him. Uncle Richey was a quiet giant. He was a soft-spoken man, full of love, kindness, patience, and resilience. This is evident by the dedication and love of his wife (Aunt Joe), who never left his side. It is also shown in the genuine kindness and compassion of his children. Although he is no longer with us, his gentle spirit and affectionate smile will live in our hearts forever. Love - Dacia Davis, Edith Davis, and Arielle Howard
My brother and I grew up together in Anchovy, St. James. As children we never fought; we had no time for that. We would wake early in the morning to look after cows and goats before going to school and when we got back home, for the rest of the day, we would play. Sometimes our father would take us in his jeep to the bushes. I have precious memories. I enjoyed the moments we spent together and only wish there were more. Reflecting now I realize how precious time spent with family is and we should cherish those moments. Rest in peace Alvin - your brother Noel.
Thank You We would like to express our sincere appreciation to relatives, friends, and well-wishers for their warm expressions of sympathy during this time. Your prayers and thoughtfulness have been a source of comfort and will always be remembered. A very special thank you to the United Pentecostal Church of Okeechobee, United Church of Jesus Christ Apostolic of Ft. Lauderdale and Pentecostal Tabernacle of Miami church families for all their support and assistance. We are most grateful. Thank you to the Buxton and Bass Funeral Home for your support and services. Our heartfelt appreciation to persons whose unwavering support and assistance have been a blessing to us. We thank you. The Richards Family
And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. Revelation 14:13