Reve' Richardson

Reve' Maddox Richardson, 79, of Lexington, South Carolina, passed peacefully into the nearer presence of Christ on Saturday, January 18, 2025, in Lexington. She was surrounded by her devoted husband of 59 years and her two beloved daughters.

Born on April 12, 1945, in Sheffield, Alabama, Reve' was the daughter of Harold Kenneth Maddox and Naomi Willingham Maddox. Her birth coincided with a momentous day in history-the passing of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. She grew up alongside her siblings Sandra, Harold Kenneth Jr. ("Sonny"), and Victoria Jane ("Vicki"), forming cherished bonds that lasted a lifetime.

Reve's early years were spent in Sheffield until her family relocated to Knoxville, Tennessee, just before her junior year of high school due to her father's career with Southern Railway. It was in Knoxville that she met the love of her life, John Edward "Ed" Richardson. Their story began at a school dance in the fall of 1961 when Ed noticed Reve' dancing the jitterbug. With the help of her brother Sonny, their first date was arranged-a date that would change both their lives forever. The couple married on September 4, 1965, at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Fountain City near Knoxville.

With Ed, Reve' attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where she pursued a major in fine arts. Although she did not complete her degree after marrying, she demonstrated remarkable determination and achieved success throughout her life. Her professional journey led her to a distinguished career in state government, where she served as Executive Assistant to the South Carolina Secretary of Commerce and later retired from the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission in 2014.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Reve' and Ed embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure by opening Azzardo, an Italian restaurant near Lexington Medical Center. The restaurant became a beloved gathering place for the community, known for its unique recipes and special events like "make your own pizza" birthday parties and green beer celebrations on St. Patrick's Day.

Reve's greatest joy was her family. She and Ed welcomed their first daughter Kristen in December 1974 and their second daughter Kimberly in November 1984. As a mother, Reve' was fiercely devoted and resourceful, dedicating herself to ensuring Kristen received the best care for scoliosis and hip malformation while embracing the unexpected blessing of becoming a mother again at age 40.

Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her three grandsons: John Edward Frick, Tyoma Frick, and Mac Dunbar. Known affectionately as "Gagee," Reve' delighted in creating special memories with them-whether wrapping beautiful Christmas gifts, cooking their favorite meals, or attending their events.

A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Reve' was an active member of Lexington United Methodist Church since the early 1970's. She contributed her artistic talents to worship banners, served on numerous church committees, and found fulfillment alongside Ed by preparing Wednesday night suppers for the congregation. In addition to her church involvement, Reve' extended her civic engagement by serving on the Town of Lexington Board of Zoning Appeals.

Reve's warmth and creativity shone through every aspect of her life. An exceptional cook known for dishes like spaghetti and marinated chicken, she brought people together around her beautifully set dining room table. Her home reflected her impeccable taste with floral arrangements and seasonal decorations-especially during Christmas when her collection of Santa Clauses brought festive cheer.

Reve' was preceded in death by her parents; parents-in-law; and her brother Sonny, who passed away in 2023 from the same illness she faced with grace. She is survived by her loving husband Ed; daughters Reverend Kristen Richardson-Frick (John) and Kimberly Richardson Dunbar; grandsons John Edward Frick, Tyoma Frick, and Mac Dunbar; sisters Sandra (Frank) and Vicki (Tony); siblings-in-law Carolyn (Walt), Joe (Jackie), Steve (Mary Ellis), Mary Anne (Mark), and Robert (Pam), and Judy Maddox; as well as many nieces, nephews, and "friends like family," including Kyle and Dawson.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Interim Healthcare Hospice and Right at Home Senior Care for their compassionate care during Reve's final months.

A service celebrating Reve's life will be held at Lexington United Methodist Church, 309 E. Main St., Lexington, SC 29072, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Reverend Will Malambri, Reverend Mack McDowell, and her daughter Kristen. Visitation will follow in Wesley Hall. The service will also be livestreamed on the church's YouTube channel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lexington United Methodist Church.