Rev. Horace Lee Richards

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Reverend Horace Lee Richards, age 91, on November 12th, 2024. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, and community leader, Horace departed this life to join his beloved wife Priscilla, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and unwavering commitment to others. The son of Hubert Otis Richards and Josie Lee White Richards, Horace was born January 4th, 1933 and raised in Canton, Georgia, and graduated from Canton High School in 1951. In 1950, he began his work career at the Canton Cotton Mills, humbly sweeping floors in the weave room. From there he held several leadership roles, eventually becoming the Director of Personnel. Even after the mill’s closure in 1981, Horace remained to assist displaced workers in finding new employment. In 1987, Horace co-founded Richards Lighting Center with his son, Phil. The business served the community for over 20 years. Horace delivered his first sermon on September 4th, 1964, and was ordained on October 11th, 1970. Over the next 40 years, he pastored eight North Georgia Baptist churches—often returning to serve congregations multiple times. These churches included North Canton Baptist Church, Goshen Baptist Church, Arbor Hill Baptist Church, Macedonia Baptist Church, Oakdale Baptist Church, Bethany Baptist Church, Haw Creek Baptist Church, and Sharp Mountain Baptist Church. During his time in ministry, Horace officiated dozens of weddings, preached approximately 700 funerals, and participated in numerous revivals as a visiting minister. He also had the honor of baptizing all three of his grandchildren. He selflessly spent countless hours visiting the sick and shut-in, providing comfort and spiritual guidance to others. Beyond his pastoral duties, Horace was deeply involved in community service. A 30-year member of the Canton Rotary Club, he served as its President and was honored as Rotarian of the Year in 1977-78. In 1999, he received the esteemed Lamar Haley Community Service Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the community. His leadership extended to serving as the Cherokee-Pickens District Chairman of the Boy Scouts of America, President of the Parent-Teacher Association for both North Canton Elementary and Hickory Flat Elementary, and Chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration. Demonstrating his dedication to civic responsibility, Horace made a lasting impact on his community. Above all his accomplishments, Horace cherished his 72-year marriage to his late wife, Martha Priscilla Richards, which he considered his greatest achievement. Married until her passing in April of this year, their enduring love and partnership were the cornerstone of his life. Horace was preceded in death by his son, Wallace H. Richards, and his beloved wife, Priscilla. He is survived by his son Phil (Aldena) Richards, daughter Martha (Bill) Partridge, grandchildren Bryan (Toni-Marie) Partridge, Benjamin Lee (Jessica) Richards, and Marlee (Cliff) Bozeman; great-grandchildren Alden Lee Richards, Isla Richards, Dylan Partridge, Jason Partridge, and Rileyanne Bozeman. The family will receive friends at Darby Funeral Home Friday, November 15th from 4–8 pm and Saturday, November 16th from 10 am–2 pm and 4–8 pm. The funeral will be Sunday, November 17th at 3 pm at North Canton Baptist Church with Rev. Jonathan Kirby officiating. Interment will follow at Macedonia Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to North Canton Baptist Church - PO Box 818, Canton GA 30114.

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Rev. Horace Lee Richards

January 4, 1933 - November 12, 2024