Lois was born in Cleveland, Ohio, the only child of her devoted and loving parents Charles and Annabelle Walton on November 14, 1925.  She had a loving stepbrother, Charles Walton, Jr. (deceased).   In junior high school, Lois met the love of her life, William B. Richardson. The courtship lasted nine years. They were married 61 years at the time of the passing of her late husband. To that union three amazing sons were born, William (deceased), Charles, and Steven.

Lois’s formative years included Dyke Elementary School and Kennard Junior High, culminating in her graduation from Central High School. Lois went on to attend the Ohio State University, but with the permission of her parents, she transferred to Bluefield State Teachers College where she graduated Cum Laude.

After graduation, Lois began a stellar teaching career at Lafayette Elementary School and finished at Gracemount Elementary School where she taught enrichment classes. Over the 48 years of her teaching career, her unwavering dedication left a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues, earning her the honor of Teacher of the Year.

Lois exemplified the Fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—as reflected in Galatians 5:22. She was a long-time member of Parkwood CME Church. Additionally, Lois was a loving and dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter. She received a 75-year plaque for her 75 years of service in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. from Grand Chapter, and also a certificate of recognition from the National Panhellenic Council of Greater Cleveland for her many years of service in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Lois’s civic engagement also extended to her active service within the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa and the National Council of Negro Women.

Lois embodied the qualities we all strive to emulate a gracious, purpose-driven life marked by compassion and excellence.

Those who remain are her sons Charles A., Steven B. (Ellen), grandchildren Deleon, Brianna, and Charles Jr., along with her nieces, nephews, family, Sorors, and friends.

Lois’s final wishes were to be cremated, and her life will be celebrated with heartfelt tributes from those who cherished her. Her ashes will be added to the family grave site later next to her loving husband William. We will miss her big, beautiful smile and her legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:9).