GOOSE CREEK, S.C. – Former Goose Creek Mayor James M. Richards, remembered as a leader who helped shape the city in its early years, will be laid to rest this Saturday, Sept. 13, at St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Baytown, Texas.
Richards, who passed away peacefully Sept. 4 at his home in Baytown, Texas, at the age of 93, served as mayor from May 22, 1974, to June 15, 1976. During his tenure, Goose Creek was still finding its footing as a young municipality, and Richards was credited with bringing energy, wisdom and foresight to city hall at a time when steady leadership was crucial.
“We appreciate Mayor Richards’ service to Goose Creek, and our prayers are with his family,” the City of Goose Creek posted to its official Facebook page.
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A U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean War, Richards was born in West Virginia and went on to enjoy a long engineering career with Exxon that took him across Illinois, South Carolina, Canada and Texas. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. According to his obituary, Richards is survived by his wife, Goldie, their three children, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Local services for the former mayor will be held on Saturday, Sept. 20, at Carolina Funeral Home and Gardens (7113 Rivers Avenue in North Charleston). Visitation will be held at 10 a.m., with a service at 11 a.m.
