James A. Richards Sr.

Greenfield, N.Y. James A. Richards Sr. of Bockes Road, died Thursday, July 24, 2008 at his daughter's home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 76. Born Jan. 23, 1932 in Fort Edward, N.Y., he was a son of the late Joyce and Gertrude (Hoag) Richards. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1952-1954. At various times during Jim's 60-plus years in the harness racing industry, he was ranked among the leading trainers and drivers at Saratoga Harness Track. As he trained Standardbreds well into his 70s, he still found time for his other passion of restoring John Deere tractors. He loved his family and held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren. Jim will be missed by all who loved and respected him and by those whose lives he touched. In addition to his parents, James is predeceased by a brother, Joseph W. Richards and Audrey J. Richards. Survivors include three daughters: Cheryl Lozier of Greenfield Center, Paula Richards of River Ridge, La., Patty Richards-Hanna of Saratoga Springs; two sons: James A. (Judy) Richards of Saratoga Springs and Ronald W. (Wendy) Richards of Corinth; sister-in-law, Joy Richards of Greenfield Center, Doris and Lloyd Petlock of Dennis Mass.; fourteen grandchildren; one great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373). A funeral service will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 28 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the family plot at Greenfield Cemetery.