Robert Richards

Robert R. Richards NORFOLK - Robert R. "Bob" Richards, Ed.D., 77, died July 21, 2009, at his home in Norfolk. He was born in Detroit, Oct. 25, 1931, the son of Harold and Blanche Richards. He was a graduate of Graceland College and Michigan State University. He received his master's degree from the University of Michigan and his doctorate in educational administration from Virginia Tech. Bob, a professor at Virginia Tech, retired as director of Virginia Tech Hampton Roads Continuing Education and Graduate Center. He was also executive director of the Education Association of Norfolk and was a man who made a difference for teachers across the nation as a driving force behind the change of focus of the National Education Association. He was an active member of Epworth United Methodist Church. His community involvement includes: chairman of the Board of Volunteers of America, president of Tidewater Mental Health Association and of the Norfolk Civitan Club, and board member of the Norfolk Crimeline. A fan of the arts and amateur theater performer, Bob was also an avid reader, gardener, and traveler. He and his wife have been to more than 40 countries, all seven continents, and every ocean. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Nancy; his daughter, Sue Ann Morrocco and husband Richard of Baltimore; his stepdaughter, Lee Ann Looman of Norfolk; his son, Jon L. Richards of Indiana; a grandson, Michael and wife Rochelle of Baltimore; and a brother, Don Richards of Cass City, Mich. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary Lou and Marge. A memorial service will be conducted at 1 p.m. Sat., Aug. 8, in Epworth United Methodist Church by the Rev. Pam Montgomery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Virginia Tech Foundation, Robert R. and Nancy A. Richards Scholarship Fund, 902 Prices Fork Road, Suite 4000 (0142), Blacksburg, VA 24061. Online condolences may be offered to the family through hdoliver.com.