Marion Chalmers Richeson

RICHESON, Marion Chalmers, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at her home. She was a beautiful person inside and out to those of us who were fortunate to know her. She was full of energy and care for others, with a sharp mind and blithe spirit. An irrepressible extravert, Marion exuded graciousness, eager to offer a cheery word or extend a welcoming hand. She was quick to share a warm smile and uplift the spirits of those lucky enough to run across her path.

Marion was born in Charlottesville, Va. in 1933. After attending Vanderbilt College, Marion graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 1955 with a bachelor's in Math and Astronomy. She began a career in the emerging field of Computer Science, leading the way for professional women in the workforce. Not long after beginning her career, Marion met her beloved husband Ray in church by coyly dropping a handkerchief near him. Marion raised three children all while continuing her career part-time, with home-life and family the center of her heart.

Marion excelled in providing a loving and warm home for her family, and the house was often filled with her playing the piano - her favorites were La Traviata and Laura's Theme from Dr. Zhivago. She loved animals and always found a way to have pets in the home despite her allergies. On more than a few occasions, her children brought home strays that were welcomed into the home.

Marion often volunteered in the community, frequently serving at the food bank and tutoring children from inner city schools. She was active in Salisbury Presbyterian Church, where she earned appointment as the first female member of the Board of Deacons. Marion was a lifelong learner and thrived on travel that involved novel experiences and cultures. She loved hiking in the mountains, sailing and canoeing with her husband and played a lot of tennis – known for her 'wicked' serve. Together, Marion and Ray enjoyed cultural events including theatre, museums, symphony and the Richmond Forum. She was always on the lookout for new adventures and gourmet restaurants, seeking reservations as soon as a good review appeared.

A great sadness in Marion's life was the death of her son, Grady, at age 22 from cancer, but she drew on her faith in God, resilient spirit and strong marriage partnership to move forward. Later in life, Marion was thrilled to spend all the time she could with her two daughters, her son-in-love, Bruce and her beloved grandchildren, Austin and Kyler. Marion and Ray moved to Cedarfield in 2008 and enjoyed many full and active years before Ray's passing in 2020. Marion is survived by her daughters, Scott Richeson and Parke Richeson (Bruce Rybarczyk); grandsons, Austin Rybarczyk and Kyler Rybarczyk; and cherished cousins, nieces and nephews. Lise Jones, Marion's special companion who became family member, made every day an adventure for the past two years.

A memorial reception will be held to celebrate her life at Cedarfield, 2300 Cedarfield Parkway, Richmond, Virginia, on Friday January 13, 2023, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friends may attend anytime during that time frame, with brief memorial words to be shared at 11:45 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Marion's memory to the Maymont Foundation or ChildFund International.