Richards, Lorraine Robeson

Lorraine Audrey Richards, born on July 3, 1937, in Clinton, Maryland, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in the humble kitchen of a small rural farmhouse, yet her life was exceedingly full, including a career of public service, being a wife of sixty two years, the mother of six children, and the beloved grandmother to thirteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Lorraine’s journey began early with a long career at the CIA, where remarkably, she was hired in 1955, while still a teenager. Despite being a young girl in a high-stress, male dominated environment, Lorraine proved herself capable and trustworthy, rising through the ranks over the next half-century of service. There she met her husband, Donald G. Richards. Together, they navigated the complexities of intelligence work during pivotal moments in our nation’s history, such as the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, where they worked together as part of an around the clock team, helping to narrowly avoid nuclear war.

Their journey together continued to unfold across continents, with two of their six children born in Australia during the Vietnam War. After returning from their wartime posting overseas, they settled in Vienna, Virginia, to raise their family, many of whom would carry on her legacy of service to our nation. After retiring from the CIA in 2001, she fulfilled her goal of returning to her rural roots, moving to a small farm in Ballard, West Virginia. There, “Granny/Gaga” spent as much time with her grandchildren as possible, enriching and maximizing their childhoods, also once-again gifting her spirit of selfless service. She would live to see four of her eldest grandchildren serve in the military.

A woman of many talents and joys, Lorraine found great pleasure in painting, gardening, birdwatching, and caring for her animals. Her love for her family was boundless; she was the heart of every birthday and family gathering, often found on the floor, engaging with her grandchildren in playful games. Her sense of humor was legendary, delighting in the antics of Calvin & Hobbes and The Far Side. Her selfless nature was a beacon to all who knew her, always ready to serve others or care for any creature in need. Music filled her life, with John Denver and bluegrass tunes keeping her foot tapping.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, Mae and Edward Robeson; her sister, Laura, and her husband, Howie; her brother, Cleve; cousin, Happy; nephew, Kenny; and her beloved dog, Clyde.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband of 62 years, Donald G. Richards; her children, Don, Michael (Noni), Linda (Noel Boggess), Frank (April), Doug (Carina), and Julie (John Bryan); thirteen grandchildren, Seth (Jhanna), Kelsey (Aaron Paben), Jandi, Langston Richards, Rhiannon, Elliott, Luke Boggess, Joseph Jackson, Sabrina, McKayla, Brianna Richards, John Jr., and Jillian Bryan; three great-grandchildren, Cecilia Richards, Asher and Evelyn Paben; and their grandmother, Karen Keough.

Lorraine Richards will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her laughter, her bright blue eyes, her infectious smile, her love, and the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Monroe County Animal League at PO Box 343, Union, WV 24983, reflecting Lorraine’s love for animals. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and residents of the Lindside Healthcare Center for their care and kindness.

Visitation with family and friends will be held at Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home in Peterstown, WV on Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM, with Pastor Terry Kornegay officiating. The burial will take place immediately afterwards at Peterstown Cemetery.

Online guestbook can be signed or condolences may be sent to the family at www.broyles-shrewsbury.com. Arrangements by Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, Peterstown, WV.