Oliver "Cy" Richards

12/29/1942 - 10/02/2025

Oliver "Cy" Patterson Richards, age 82, of Horton, Michigan, passed away peacefully under the loving care of his family on October 2, 2025. He was born on December 29, 1942, in Jackson, Michigan, to Oliver "OB" and Vera (Swope) Richards.
Cy is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years Carol Richards (Peckham); loving children Heide (Mike) Richards-Pandolf and Oliver (Sara) Richards; step-son Mark (Linda) Oberlin; cherished grandchildren Jacob Fall, Olivia Richards, Jorey Richards, and Oliver Richards; step-grandchildren Shandi (Jack) Woodworth, Kayla (Tony) Hillis, Melinda (Mike) Pantangco, and Sierra Rogers; one great-grandchild and eleven step-great-grandchildren; siblings Ron (Janet) Richards, Dan (Kathy) Richards, and Scott (Laurie) Richards; brother-in-law Ken Peckham and sister-in-law Cindy Sherwood; devoted uncle to several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Oliver "OB" and Vera Richards; step-daughter Julie Oberlin.
Oliver "Cy" Patterson Richards was a familiar, friendly face to countless neighbors across the surrounding counties. For many years he worked as a NAPA store salesperson and parts supplier, earning a reputation for deep know-how, steady reliability, and a friendly smile for everyone who walked through the door.
Away from work, Cy found his happiest miles on the horse trail. He proudly served in the mounted division and loved nothing more than a good ride on horseback. He also delighted in tractor drives with his antique John Deere "60," quiet evenings watching classic spaghetti westerns, and unhurried time spent with friends and family.
Cy never hesitated to lend a hand. He gave his time and energy generously at township, county, and state fair events, showing up with that easy smile and warm spirit that made fast friends of strangers. The connections he built were lasting, and the care he showed will not be forgotten.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. In honoring Cy's life, we remember a man who showed up-faithfully, cheerfully, and wholeheartedly-for his work, his community, and the people he loved.
He was actively involved in various organizations, including the Michigan Threshers Association and the Michigan Trail Riders Association. Additionally, he served on the Hillsdale Fair Board, Moscow Township Board, Jackson County Sheriff Mounted Division, and Waterloo Horsemen's Association. He proudly served in the National Guard.
The family extends special thank you to the compassionate care provided by the staff at Jackson Hospice House.
A funeral service to honor his life will be held at the Hampton Funeral Home in Hanover (221 W. Main Street, Hanover, Michigan) on Monday, October 6, 2025, beginning at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Bart Hall officiating. Interment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Concord, Michigan. The family will receive friends for visitation on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. and Monday, 10 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home in Hanover. A memorial contribution can be made to the charity of your choice.
Please visit www.hamptonfuneralhomes.com to sign the guestbook and/or send a condolence to the family.