CRAFTSBURY – James (Jim) W. Richards, 79, of Craftsbury passed away peacefully at his home on October 29, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 3, 1942, in Millport, Ala., to James and Jeanette (Dobson) Richards. Jim is a Navy veteran of the Korean War, spending time at sea aboard the USS Oriskany. In December 1963, he married Patricia Jones, and they began their lives together in Elkton, Md.
In Jim’s post-Navy days, he worked at Getty Oil and put his carpentry talents to work doing side jobs. After taking early retirement from his position at Getty Oil, their family relocated to Vermont, where he started Richards and Sons building, from 1986 until he retired in 2005. During that time, he was also co-owner of the Brassknocker Inn in East Craftsbury that he, his wife, and mother owned and operated from 1988 to the early 2000s. After retiring from building, Jim enjoyed working part-time for Cabot Creamery, being the cheese “ambassador” at demos and food shows around the country. He also began working at the Country Club of Barre as an outside attendant to the pro shop. Both of these roles allowed Jim to connect with hundreds of people on a personal level – something that fueled his spirit.
He held memberships with the Meridan Sun Masonic Lodge # 20 in Craftsbury, Mount Sinai Shriners # 3 in Montpelier as part of their motorcycle unit, and the American Legion in Hardwick. His hobbies included golfing, golf club building, snowmobiling, and furniture making. He was a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Alabama Crimson Tide football teams. Jim was very family-oriented, patriotic and never hesitated to express his love for this country.
He is survived by his wife Patricia Richards of Craftsbury; his children: Jeffrey S. Richards (Caroline) of Newark, Del., Stephen D. Richards (Melissa) of Simsbury, Conn., and Philip B. Richards (Rachael) of East Montpelier; by his grandchildren: Heather, Tabitha, Kaitlyn, Chelsea, Jeffrey Jr., Emmalee, Bryson, Riley, Micah, and Lily; and his great-grandchildren: George, Amelia, and Oliver. He is also survived by his brother Michael D. Richards (Irene), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A celebration of life will take place on November 27, the place and time to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Shriners hospital, c/o Donor relations, 29000 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa FL 33607, on his behalf.On-line condolences may be made at curtis-britch.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch-Davis & Bouffard Funeral Home, Craftsbury Common, VT.
