Barbara Ellen Richards, born on May 5, 1939, passed away on August 8, 2024. Barbara was a devoted school bus driver for 38 years, known for her love of singing gospel music and her talent as an excellent homemaker.

She was preceded in death by her father, Clarence Atkins; mother, Mary Atkins; husband, Billy F. Richards; grandson, Billy W. Robertson; and her brothers, Henry Atkins, Claud Atkins, Bobby Atkins, Bill Atkins, Paul Atkins, and Clarence Atkins, Jr.

Barbara leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her son, Richard Atkins; daughters, Regina Carter, Susie Chandler, Tina Falls, and Tonya Hippert; her brother, Ronnie Atkins (Diane); along with 9 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 12, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Valley Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Valley Funeral Home. Barbara will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.