Ruth Ann Richards

IN MEMORY OF: Ruth Ann Richards Serving Location: CRAIN PLEASANT GROVE-MURDALE FUNERAL HOME 31 Memorial Drive, Murphysboro, Illinois Ruth Ann Richards, 87, of Murphysboro, peacefully entered the loving arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 19, 2025 while in Hospice care at The Landings in Carbondale, Illinois. Ruth Ann was born in Murphysboro on November 4, 1937 to Arthur and Gladys (Imhoff) Bitner. On April 7, 1956 she married the love of her life, Homer Lee Richards, who cherished her unconditionally until his death in 2017. She dedicated 43 years of service as a teller at Regions Bank in Murphysboro. A devoted member of Pate Chapel Baptist Church, Ruth Ann served faithfully alongside her husband in various ministries. She held the position of church clerk for many years and supported Homer in his role as Deacon. Together, they were active members of The Gideons International for many years. Ruth Ann is survived by her loving son, Robert Richards, and his wife Sandy, who lived next to her and lovingly helped care for her when she could no longer live independently. She found her greatest joy in serving her Lord and spending time with her family. Ruth Ann was a proud grandmother to three grandchildren: Kerry (Matthew) Falkenburry, Aaron Richards, Cassie (Kyle) Morgan; and eight great-grandchildren: Madison, William, and Cole Falkenburry, Kaiden and Kanton Richards, and Layla, Grayson, and Knox Morgan. She is survived by her brother, Paul (Arlene) Bitner, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and one brother, Donald Bitner. The family extends their deepest gratitude to all those who cared for Ruth Ann in her later years, especially Arlene Rinehart, Helen Russell, the compassionate staff and nurses at The Landings – with special thanks to Rendy, Jen, and Brittany U. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pate Chapel Baptist Church or Hospice of Southern Illinois. Visitation 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Thursday, July 24 with funeral at 12:00 PM all at Pate Chapel Baptist Church, 3416 W. Grange Hall Rd., Murphysboro with Rev. Jim Easton and Rev. Richard Lynch officiating. Interment will follow the service at Pleasant Grove Memorial Park. Crain Pleasant Grove-Murdale Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Ruth Ann Richards

November 4, 1937 - July 19, 2025