Earnest Richard

Mr. Earnest Richard was born September 7, 1943, in Cross Hill, S, the fifth of seven children born to the late Lelear Mae and Oscar Richard.

Earnest was educated in the Laurens County public school system. He was a devoted member of the Little River Zion Baptist Church, where he helped found the All Male Choir. He also served faithfully as a member of the Deacon Board and was a proud member of the Little River Zion Masonic Lodge 526 for 28 years.

Earnest worked diligently throughout his life, spending 38 years with Ashten Johnson and 10 years with Presbyterian College. Following his retirement, he enjoyed spending his time outdoors-especially cutting grass and fishing- until his health began to decline.

In addition to his parents, Earnest was preceded in death by his son, Bernard Williams; four sisters: Cora Mae Wimphrey, Mary Kay Richard, Ossie Cunningham, and Pearl Cheeks' and two brothers: Dolphus Richard and James "Jimmy" Richard.

Affectionately known as Mr. Earnest, he leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 20 years, Rosa Barksdale Richard; three daughters: Patricia Gary, Ivey (Quentin) Spann, and Victoria (Rodney) Ferguson; one son, Leonard Hawthorne; five grandchildren, Alexis Gary, Vesa Valentine, Cortez Gary, Kai Wanda Ferguson, and Keisha Kennedy; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by three sisters-in-law: Bobbie Holland, Juanita Richard, and Shirley Richard; three brothers-in-law: John Barksdale, Michael (Mary) Barksdale, and Robert Cook; a special niece, Suzie Richardson; two godchildren: Patricia Wilson and Rodney Ferguson and a host of loving nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Mr. Earnest will be remembered for his faith, dedication, and the warmth he shared with everyone who knew him. His legacy of love, service, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

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