Vivian Neschelle "Richmond" Fordham

Ms. Vivian Neschelle (Richmond) Fordham, age 66, of Sanford, North Carolina, entered eternal rest on Monday, August 25, 2025, at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

The Obituary

Vivian Richmond Fordham (Pumkin) was born April 15, 1959. On August 25, 2025, God sent His angels to carry her home.
Vivian was an active member of Tempting Congregational Church, where she served on the Senior Usher Board, Junior Usher Board Leader, Secretary of Program Committee, Missionary Treasure, Assistant Church Announcer and a member of kitchen committee. She loved her Pastor and Church Family.
Vivian was a proud member of the US Army. Most memorable assignments were Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE, BE), 902 Military Intelligence Group, Fort Meade, MD, served nine months as part of Desert Shield/Desert Storm and was chosen to be assigned to White House Communications. Fort Bragg taught her what being a soldier was all about. While assigned to Fort Bragg she served on the General Staff.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Fordham; mother, Rebecca Ann Raeford; father, George W. Raeford, Sr.; one daughter, Ishea McKinney; grandmother, Pearlie Richmond; mother-in-law and friend, Bertha Mae Fordham; one granddaughter, Cameron Fordham, one sister in-law, Ann Allen; one brother-in-Law, William Fordham; two special nephews, Antonio (Pookie) and Edmond Richmond; and one uncle, John Richmond, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memories two daughter, Gabrielle Richmond and LaKesha Fordham; one son, Herbert Addison (Shanice) of Fort Hood, Texas; three brothers, Shelton (Veroncia), Eric Richmond (Vickie), and Allan Beck (Lisa) all of Sanford, NC; a special aunt, sister, friend, Lessie Richmond; two aunts, Vergie Hooker (Ed, Jr.) and Mary Hooker; eight grandchildren, one sister-in-law, Rhodie Thornhill; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

"We do not own copyrights to the background music."

Thank you for helping us protect the families and communities we serve.

Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Sanford, NC