Hortense "Hortencia" Richardson

Hortense "Hortencia" Richardson, a beacon of love and laughter, was called home by the Lord on September 25, 2025, at the blessed age of 87, surrounded by the love of her family in Texas. Born on June 30, 1938, in the warm and welcoming town of Berclair, Texas, Hortencia's life was a tapestry of joy, service, and song, woven with the threads of her faith and the melodies of country music.
Hortencia's journey through life was as flavorful and rich as the recipes she conjured in her bakery, a place where sugar and spice were always in ample supply. Her hands, equally skilled in kneading dough and stitching seams, were never idle, as she poured her heart into her work as a school cafeteria manager, a resale shop owner, and a seamstress. She was a woman whose entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by her dedication to those she served.
Her family was her pride and joy, her life's work, and her legacy. She was a loving mother to Suzanne Griscom and her husband Matt, Shirley Gutierrez, Richard Gutierrez, and Jim Gutierrez and his late wife Shirley. Hortencia's sister Theresa Gonzalez shared in the joys and sorrows of life's journey, while her heart fondly remembered her late parents Justo and Eulalia Sanchez, brothers Lino, Lazaro, Justo Jr Sanchez, and her sisters Paula Resendez, Alselma Ramirez, Suzie Coy, and Ampado Acosta. Hortencia's love story was twice told, first with Alfred Gutierrez and then with Jack Richardson, both of whom predeceased her, leaving her with cherished memories and stories to tell.

Hortencia's role as 'Grandma' was performed with an Oscar-worthy flair, enchanting her 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren with tales of yesteryears and the secret ingredient to her famous pies – a dash of love and a sprinkle of patience. Her laughter was a balm, her hugs a refuge, and her kitchen a haven where wisdom was served with a side of cookies.
Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through life's highs and lows with a steadfast heart and an unwavering trust in God's plan. Hortencia's faith was as much a part of her as her infectious humor, which she shared generously, ensuring that even in the somber moments, a glint of mirth was never far away.
Hortencia's love for country music, particularly the tunes of George Jones, could turn any day into a dance party. Her passions included cooking up a storm for her beloved family, indulging in a bit of retail therapy, and hosting social gatherings that were the stuff of legend, especially during the holidays. The family bay house in Sargent, Texas, was the stage for many an unforgettable sunset and the echo of laughter across the water.
In her younger years, Hortencia's adventurous spirit saw her riding motorcycles with her late husband Al, the wind in their hair and love fueling their ride. Those moments, like so many in her life, were lived with a zest that was infectious and a joy that was uncontainable.
Describing Hortencia is as simple as recounting the virtues she embodied – loving, thoughtful, and selfless. She gave of herself with a generosity that knew no bounds and loved with a depth that was immeasurable. Her life was a testament to the beauty of giving, the strength of faith, and the power of a good laugh.
As we bid farewell to Hortencia, we are reminded that heaven must have needed a hostess for its grandest celebration, and who better than our dear Hortencia to fill that role? Her legacy will live on in the hearts she touched, the lives she enriched, and the laughter she shared. Rest in peace, dear Hortencia, until we meet again at the Lord's great banquet, where the music never ends, and love abides forever. Amen.

Memorial services to celebrate the life of Hortencia Richardson will be conducted at one o'clock in the afternoon on Monday, the 6th day of October 2025 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel. Immediately following the service, all are invited to attend a reception in the Rhone Reflection Room at Rhone Funeral Home.

Memorial and cremation services for Hortense "Hortencia" Richardson are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.