Ida Mae Richardson

Ida Mae (Sims) Richardson, 83, of Douglassville, Texas, passed away November 23, 2024, with family by her side. Ida Mae was born August 17, 1941, to Lonnie Leroy and Nora Inez Sims in Linden, Texas. She was the fourth of eleven children and maintained close and loving relationships with her siblings and their families throughout life.
Ida Mae married Ray Richardson May 11, 1959, and made their home in Douglassville, Texas where they raised their two children. They were surrogate parents to multiple others as their door and hearts have been open to many throughout the years maintaining the philosophy that family is not determined by DNA alone. She loved nothing more than having a house full of family and friends, taking her children and their friends on trail rides, camping trips, and more. Countless get-togethers were hosted at her home where good food, games, and live music were enjoyed by all. Once her children and grandchildren were grown that love and care transferred to her canine companions. Arlo, Zoe, Buster, Blackie, and Blossom were all showered with daily love and snacks. Ida Mae worked in the timber industry alongside her husband before working in and then opening her own convenience store, "Ida's Grocery". She also drove a school bus for Atlanta ISD until retiring.
Ida Mae was as strong as she was sweet and possessed the ability to outwork most, including people half her age. She stayed busy doing things she loved until the very end. That list included sewing, preserving harvests from the garden, researching family history and genealogy, doing word puzzles, playing games, and visiting with loved ones. Sharp as a tack, she always called to wish happy birthdays or anniversaries to those fortunate enough to be close to her. She will be remembered for her huge heart, homemade chocolate pies and banana puddings, and the love she poured into her family. She will be greatly missed by all that know and love her.
Ida Mae was preceded in death by her husband of sixty-five years Ray Richardson, son Michael Ray Richardson, parents, and siblings Algerine, Theron, Bernard, Jerry, and Amy.
She is survived by her daughter & son-in-law, Renee & Mark Nunn; daughter-in-law, Troyla Woodruff; granddaughters, KiAnn Richardson & Perin Ford; grandson, Chuck Priestly; great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Gabe, Owen & Olivia; siblings Wayne, Gerald, Candy, Otis & Piper; canine companions Arlo & Zoe; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other chosen family members.
Ida Mae will be laid to rest at 11:00 a.m. November 29, 2024 at Douglassville Cemetery, next to her husband and son, under the direction of Reeder-Davis Funeral Home in Linden. There will be a time of visitation from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the funeral home.