Freddie Nelson Richards

Freddie Nelson "Fred" Richards, 85, of Eustis, Florida, and formerly of Fort White, passed away on February 7, 2025. Born in Lake City, Florida, Fred was a dedicated building contractor who made his mark in residential and agricultural construction. He moved to Eustis in 1974 after living in Apopka, Florida, where he and his wife managed a chicken farm. A proud member of the Lake County Cattlemen’s Association and the First Baptist Church of Umatilla, Fred exemplified community spirit and commitment. Fred served honorably in the Army, and in his leisure time, he had a passion for taking care of his cattle and he loved to hunt and fish with his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on through his beloved family: his wife of 64 years, Barbara Richards; his son, Lavon (Cindy) Richards; his daughter Cindy Davis (predeceased); his daughter, Rhonda (Greg) Wiggins; three brothers, Tillman, George (Barbara Ann), and Dale (Gwen) Richards; his sister, Lottie Nell Osteen; and his sister, Clara Mae Jones (predeceased). He was also cherished by seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A funeral service honoring his life will be held at Harden/Pauli Funeral Home in Eustis on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM. Following the service, interment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Eustis. The family invites friends to join them in celebrating Freddie's life and sharing their memories. An online guestbook is available at www.hardenpauli.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Harden/Pauli Funeral Home, Eustis, Florida.