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Vera Mae Coffman Richardson passed away January 15, 2018, in Jackson, Mississippi. Born on September 15, 1922, in Jackson, Tennessee, to Henry Cleveland Coffman and Effie Mae Owen Coffman, Vera and her family later moved to Jackson, Mississippi. She graduated from Central High School in 1940, where her achievements included being elected Senior Class President and being selected as Miss Central High School. She thereafter attended Millsaps College, where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority, and Mississippi State College for Women.
Vera married the love of her life, Van Richardson, in November 1942, just weeks before Van left for overseas duty in World War II. Upon his return from war, the couple lived in Memphis, Grenada, and Greenwood over the years before settling permanently in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1966. Vera was very active in many civic and social organizations, including the Jaycettes, Daughters of the American Revolution, First Families of both Mississippi and Tennessee, and Junior Auxiliary. She was an avid bridge player and loved to read, especially history and biographies.
Vera became a genealogist for the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, after raising her family. She delighted in research and helping families find information about their families. One of her favorite projects was extended genealogical research on Elvis Presley for an author.
Mrs. Richardson was a member of Briarwood United Methodist Church Jackson MS.
In addition to her parents, Vera was predeceased by her husband, Van Milan Richardson, Sr., and an infant sister. She is survived by her sons Van Richardson, Jr. (Marianne) of Sharpsburg, GA and Bob Richardson (Virginia) of Madison; MS, daughter Susan Dale of Ridgeland MS; grandchildren- Lara Richardson of Valley Village, CA, Nick Richardson (Katie) of Park City, UT , Keith Dale of Jackson, MS; Robert Richardson of Madison, MS, Lindsay Richardson of Birmingham, AL; and great-grandchildren-Elizabeth and Kelly Richardson of Park City, UT, Robbie and Sean O'Sullivan of Athens, GA, and Pearl Richardson of Valley Village, CA.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, January 17, from 11:30-12:30, at Lakewood Funeral Home, with a graveside service to follow at Lakewood Memorial Park.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Lakewood Funeral Home.
4 Entries
January 21, 2018
Gloria Allen
Susan,
I just today saw the obituary for your mom. I know you will always have the memories of being with your mom and dad. I will pray for all of you in the coming days and I'm here any time you need someone. Love to all of you.
Gloria Allen
January 17, 2018
I'm sorry for your loss act 24 15
January 16, 2018
I think of Vera often and the years ya'll lived across the street from me in Greenwood. Have kept up with all through fb, and admired Vera and Van, Sr very much. Prayers and love for you all.
LaDonna
January 16, 2018
Janice Ford
Vera Richardson lived such a full life and will be missed by very many both in Jackson and Greenwood. Chip and I offer our love and prayers to her family as they mourn her loss. She was one of the great "Moms" of Robert E. Lee!
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