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Richie Bolton Obituary
Born Richie Elmira Cofer, she was a native of Smithfield, Va. She was born on July 5, 1916 to the late Ida and Tom Cofer.
She was the widow of the late John Shamsideen, formerly John Lawson Bolton, who predeceased her on Dec. 23, 2005. They were married for 55 years.
Richie and her now late husband moved from Albany, N.Y., to Howard Street in New London and then to 23 Hempstead Street in New London. She worked as an LPN at the Seaside Regional Medical Center, and he at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, before taking time off to raise her children until they were old enough to attend school. She then became employed as an LPN at Nutmeg Pavilion Convalescent Home in New London. She retired at the time her illness began in 1986.
Richie leaves, to cherish her memory, a daughter, Idette (Bolton) Thompson and her husband, Danny; a son, Varnaud Shamsideen and his wife, Renee; two grandchildren, Brittany Jaskiewicz and Dontae Patterson; a special niece, Joan Cofer, who she raised as her daughter; two brothers, John Cofer, of Miami, Fla., and Wilbur Cofer and his wife, Elizabeth, of Delaware; and a sister-in-law, Stella Cofer, of New Jersey.
She was predeceased by her husband, John; brothers, Morris, Peter, and Theodore; and sisters, Bertha, Francis, and Rosetta.
She also leaves behind her closest and dearest friend, Mrs. Edith Berry, of Oakdale. There are many other friends who also cherish her memory. Richie also bas a host or nieces and nephews who love her very much.
Calling hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Madry Temple Church of God in Christ, 15 Manwaring Street, New London. The Funeral Service will be held at noon on Saturday with a viewing from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Fellowship with the family will be immediately following the funeral. Burial will be in Smithfield, Va., in the Methodist Cemetery, at the convenience of the family.
The Lester Gee Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richie Bolton
Louis Ross
April 10, 2006
May the Lord stand by you and your family.
Home IN
April 1, 2006
GOD ANSWERS KNEE MAIL:)
Ron and Josie Pittman
March 30, 2006
We are very sorry for your loss if there is anything we can do for you please don't hesitate to call.
Donna Pombrio
March 29, 2006
Dear Idette, Vernaud and Family,
Our hearts are with you at this emotional time. As you may remember, I met you and your mom during the summer of 1990. I didn’t know her in her healthy years, but I know it was hard for her to switch from being the strong person who met everyone else’s needs to a women who had to depend on others so much. I was inspired by the way she didn’t become bitter or resentful. She trusted in God’s goodness and focused on the positive.
We’ll always remember Richie as a spunky woman with a heart to be a giver.
She loved to laugh. In her later years, laughing usually resulted in a coughing spell but she didn’t let that keep her reserved and into herself.
Even when she could no longer articulate words clearly, she still made an effort to encourage. Praising our girls when they played their flutes for her and letting our young son, Yani, feel welcome to play his drum for her. There are many elderly people who might not be able to talk clearly, but who could definitely get the point across that they did not want such noise around, but she always welcomed us and made us feel very special. Your mom was a very special woman!
We will miss her very much
and feel honored to have known her!
Love,
John, Donna,
Kristina, Stacia and Yani Pombrio
Peaches Douglas
March 27, 2006
I am sorry for your loss, but we know that your mom is in a better place where there is no pain, tears or sorrow.
Adgers Family
March 27, 2006
Our sincere condolences to the family on your loss. May God bless you all with strength and memories of love during this time.
Crystal DeLorge
March 27, 2006
May the beautiful memories that fill your heart help to bring you comfort..Your in my thoughts and prayers...Crystal
Travis Spring & Family
March 27, 2006
Idette I am so sorry for your loss.God bless ,we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Travis Spring & Family
Sally A. Whitman
March 26, 2006
Dear Family:
Once again, and sadly, all too soon, I wish to extend my condolences to you all. Richie was my "hero" in a lot of ways; she stood strong and never gave up the good fight. I will never forget some of the evenings I spent at your home on Hempstead St (my ex was visiting with John)and the wonderful, warm and loving conversations that Richie and I had. She was such a comfort when, on one special evening nearly 17 years ago, I began having labor pains while visiting at your home with her. She loved my daughter Danaya dearly, and loved to hear her sing. Thank you all again for being who you are....I admire each and every one of you and will never forget the special times I spent with your parents. With my love and sympathy, SALLY A. WHITMAN and daughter DANAYA WALLACE
Robert Cook ,jr
March 26, 2006
Very sorry for your loss, try to think of all the good times you and her had.
Robert & Gloria Guess
March 25, 2006
Our condolences to the family,you are in our hearts and prayers.
Charlene Baskerville
March 25, 2006
Idette - Mother's are very special and I know you will miss her dearly. But we can rejoice and know that she is with our Heavenly Father. Feel what you feel and always cherish the memories. God Bless you and your family
Deborah, Tiffany, Tia, Tiara, Keith Cofer
March 24, 2006
Dear Family,
You know that both our prayers and love embrace you at this hour of sorrow at the loss of your beloved mother and our beloved aunt. There are no words to express the deep love we all have for you all, but knowing that we will continue to move together, lovingly, as a family united during both good and challenging times, I pray will serve as the "Ark" that carries you through during this and all the storms of life that may endevor to come your way.
Veronica Cofer
March 24, 2006
To the Family of Aunt Richie:
I have so many wonderful memories about my Aunt Richie & I treasure each and every one…May the beauty of your memories bring comfort to your hearts. My deepest and most sincere condolences go out to you all.
Love,
Gary and Letriona McCahill
March 24, 2006
Idette
Our prayers go out for you and your family. We will miss Richie and her tender heart. We look forward to seeing her on the other side of Glory.
"I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am" John 14:3b
Yours in Christ
Gary, Letriona, and Cole
Stella Cofer
March 24, 2006
GOOD BYE MY DEAR SISTER-IN-LAW RICHIE.
LET GOD’S PEACE THAT SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING BE WITH YOUR LOVED ONES, KNOWING THAT, IF WE ARE BELIEVERS AND ARE BORN AGAIN, WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN WE SHALL ALL MEET AGAIN.
REST IN PEACE…
Josephine Jackson
March 24, 2006
Idett,
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Varnaurd, and your family. I wish that I could be there with you, but know that you are in my heart and I love you dearly.
With deepest sympathy
Josephine&Anthony, Ashley, Devlyn and Kendra
John Cofer
March 24, 2006
To the Family & Loved Ones
In this your time of loss, I send my deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers. I met aunt Richie only a few times as a young child. My father, John Hinton Cofer is one of her surviving brothers. I did not clearly remember her until I viewed the picture in the obituary - and all the memories of that kind face came flooding back. Please know that though absent from the services on this Saturday, I will be praying for the strength and blessing upon her children and loved ones that only Christ can impart.
Yours Very Truly
In Christ
Pastor John Robert Cofer
william carter
March 24, 2006
You have been a fine example for us all. Graditude and how to grow into maturity before meeting the Maker is what I am taking away
Dee (Cofer) Arrington
March 24, 2006
Idette, Varnaud & Family,
Aunt Richie was a very special aunt, so many memories of our childhood come to mind. When we saw Aunt Richie, we anticipated the sweet aroma of her infamous "whole-wheat" rolls, even before they were fashionable (:) and her "congo bars"! What memories. Great memories! So let's hold on to our memories, to all the cherished moments of the past, to the blessings and the laughter, the joys and the celebrations, the sorrows and the tears. They all add up to a treasure of fond yesterdays that you (we) shared and spent together, and they keep Aunt Richie close to us in spirit and thought. The special moments and memories in your life will never change. They will always be in your heart and mine, today and forevermore. I smile to think that my dad and his sister are together in that big pond in the heavens....fishing forevermore! Oh, how they loved fish!
Love you, much!
Your Cousin, Dee & Family
Michael Sr., Michael Jr., Alexander
Vilma Cofer
March 24, 2006
Condolences.
From: Vilma, Davida, Judith and John jr.
Michael and Immacula Perkins
March 24, 2006
Our condolences to Ritchie's family we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
James Stanfield
March 24, 2006
It was a pleasure getting to know Richie in her later part of life. She was always grateful for the times spent together. I remember singing songs to God with her. I'll see you again soon.
Denise Higgins
March 24, 2006
Idette my dear friend, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. You have a lifetime of memories to cherish and comfort you as you continue on in your journey of life.
Abbruzzese Family
March 24, 2006
Our condolences to you Idette and family.God bless ,we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Wayne & Melissa Ford
March 23, 2006
We play, we love, and we celebrate the miracle of life every day, not because there is no grief, but because life is precious and time is limited. Since death is certain, the real question is, how shall we live? I will accept my grief over the limits of life. I will celebrate its wonder.
We extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Duncan Magoon
March 23, 2006
Idette and Danny,
Just a short note to tell you that my thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Kim Bowens
March 23, 2006
Aunt Idette,
You know that you mean so much to my family and to see you hurt, it hurts us all. I will continue to keep you and yours in my prayers. God bless you and thank you for being the person you are. May God hold you in your time of sorrow.
Michelle Roman
March 23, 2006
Idette,Danny,and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It's been a long road and you have always been there every step of the way. We love you all. God Bless you.
Michelle, David and Family
Katherine Brittian
March 23, 2006
Idette and family:
Praying that God will give you the peace that passeth all understanding and comfort you as only He can. We will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Prayerfully,
Kat,Roger & family
Stephanie Booth
March 23, 2006
My love, thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time.
L. Ware
March 23, 2006
Idette and Danny,
Even in the midst of death, there is life. In the midst of loss there is gain, and in the midst of pain there is peace. Be encouraged and know that God has not left you and will not forsake you. You have a family that will be there with you through this time.
Be Blessed and I will be praying for you.
Leigh
Lee Pié
March 23, 2006
We are all saddened by your loss. May warm memories and the support of family and friends comfort you. God bless, Lee, Bill, Elise, & Bill Pié, Jr.
Pamela Hodge
March 23, 2006
Idette and Red: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of loss! Continue to focus on all of the good things (i.e. Raggity Ann dolls - smile) that your mom brought to you and others. Remember that "Earth holds no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal". I love you both dearly!
Michael Jubinsky
March 23, 2006
Idette - Our thoughts and prayers are with you. you love of your parents will keep them alive in you family's memory forever.
Michael
Dan Czikowsky
March 22, 2006
Idette and Danny,
It seems the last few months have been a truly trying time for you and your family; I applaud your compassionate efforts in keeping your parents’ memories alive and admire your faith in the Lord. May you remain strong and touched by all the thoughts and prayers disseminated by all of your friends and family.
Linda Kendrick
March 22, 2006
Idette and Danny: It's been a rough road - losing two parents so close to each other. God Bless your entire family in their healing process. Love, Linda Prince Kendrick
Ed Gubbins
March 22, 2006
Idette-- My thoughts and prayers are for you and your family at this difficult time.
Robin Sas
March 22, 2006
Idette and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Robin Sas
Craig Woody
March 22, 2006
Edie and myself extend our kindest regards concerning your mothers passing. You and your family are in our thoughts.
Douglas@Laura Jackson
March 22, 2006
We love you,and our prayers are with you.Uncle Doug and Laura.
Carolyn Cofer
March 22, 2006
Good Bye Aunt Richie.
May you rest in peace.
May your loved ones find comfort in
your memory.
Love,
Carolyn
Mark Johnson
March 22, 2006
Idette,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rev. Franklin Wilbur
March 22, 2006
Bro Varnaud,my prayers and condoleses are with you in this time of sorrow. Know that God does not make mistakes and that earth holds no sorrow that Heaven can not heal. Peace and Blessings!
Bertha Bowens
March 22, 2006
Idette
I have searched high and low to find the perfect card to show you how much I feel you pain at this time. I have yet to find that card. You know as we were growing up we became the best of friends (until the end). My mother became your mother, as your mother became my mother too. “Make all A’s today.” Cod Liver Oil etc, etc........... So the lose of 1of our mother is heavy on my heart also. I can’t put into word the pain I’m feel now, not being able to be by your side, but know that you and your family are in my praise always.
Still your Best Friend Til the End
Bertha :)
Al Esposito
March 22, 2006
Idette and Danny, the Esposito family expresses our love and sympathy for your family's loss. May she rest in eternal peace. Al Esposito
PauL Cofer
March 22, 2006
To the Family of Aunt Richie:
Often times, feelings go deeper than words can express, and this was one of those times. I wanted to send you my heartfelt condolence of your lost but rejoice in Heavens’ gain knowing that she is now with the Father. As the Word tells us, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Aunt Richie’s memories shall truly be cherished as her crossing has just begun. She lives in the hearts of those she touched as she will always be remembered…
May God’s peace; His love and grace be with you today, tomorrow and always…
Love, Cousin PauL Cofer
Stephen and Lisa Whitehouse
March 22, 2006
Lisa and I extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time.
Debbie Jaskiewicz
March 22, 2006
My thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family Idette during this time. May God Bless You All.
Jay Stover
March 22, 2006
My deepest condolences to you Idette & family. God Bless you all, and comfort you through this difficult period of mourning your mothers passing. Love always,
Shirley/Jay
JUDY BELL
March 22, 2006
MAY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALWAYS.
I WANT YOU TO REMEMBER THAT GOD IS IN CHARGE.
GOD BLESS,
JUDY AND FAMILY
Clara Jackson
March 22, 2006
Idette & Family,
We are sorry for your loss. May her spirit & memories bring you comfort during this tough time.
Love, Your Cousins
Galen, Clara, Melina and Ali Jackson
YaQuisha Neal
March 22, 2006
God bless the family of Richie Bolton. May god be with you in your time of need.
Family please know that she is an addition to gods garden.
Sterling DeRuiter
March 22, 2006
Your temporary loss is Heavens eternal gain. As King David said in the Old Testament upon being informed of one of his son's death--I will go to him but he shall not return to me. Be at peace as your mother already is, Sterling
Wanda Dunmore
March 22, 2006
Idette my prayers are with you and your family. God Bless
Ron, Gwen and Nikki Dunson
March 22, 2006
You are in our prayers always.
May God Bless You.
Traci & Cayla Copeland
March 22, 2006
Our deepest sympathies go out to your family. You are always in out thoughts.
Traci & Cayla
George Noyce
March 22, 2006
So sorry for your loss. We are all praying for you. The Noyce family.
Valerie Strong
March 22, 2006
Idette and Family...
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of your "MOM" Richie Bolton. My thoughts and prayers are with you all in your season of mourning. May the Lord continue to bless and smile upon you as he gives you strength to seek his grace and mercy.
Sincere Blessings...
Paulette Faggett
March 22, 2006
My prayers are with you but rejoice knowing that they are together again with God.
Paulette
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