With very sad hearts, the family of Mila (Ludmila Otilia) Richards of Castlegar announce her passing on Wednesday, September 24, 2014, blessed with 89 years of life.
Mila was born in Trail, B.C. on December 27, 1924 to parents John and Mary Makay. She was raised in Trail, and lived there until her marriage to George Richards in 1955. They moved to Kinnaird (Castlegar), and lived for 55 years at 2600 Columbia Avenue.
Mila was a loving wife to George, and devoted mother and grandmother to their 5 children and 12 grandchildren. The family was central to her life and she was tireless in her care and dedication. Her efforts were selfless, and always inspired by a love to support and encourage.
She had a lifelong dedication to the Church. In her early days she participated in many religious and social services in St. Anthony’s parish in Trail. Singing was a pleasure that she particularly loved, and one that she enjoyed throughout her life. In Castlegar she served as a catechism teacher, Eucharistic Minister, reader at mass and in other capacities at St. Rita’s including long service to the CWL.
Mila was always her best when attending to others. She had a deep and sincere interest in everyone she met, and had a special way to engage one and all. Her sense of humour was delightful and the sound of joy in her laughter will always be remembered. Her smile was gentle, her words kind, her spirit encouraging and reassuring. She was an inspiration to all of us.
After the family was raised she dedicated herself to working with George in solidarity with the cause of social justice. Through fundraising by Teardrop Crafts, community activities with KRUNA and letter writing campaigns, many hours were devoted to supporting and standing as a witness for the poor and oppressed. The plight of women and children around the world were especially important to her. In this calling she lived her faith and became deeply present for those in pain and sorrow.
She was predeceased by her husband George, brother Delfin Makay of Surrey and her sister Albina Makay of Trail.
Left to mourn her loss are her children, Gregory (Joanne) Richards, Louise (Fraser) Stewart, Beatrice (Gordon) Bibby, Timothy (Alix) Richards and Shirley (John) Amaral; grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, and Rebecca Richards, Mary and James Stewart, Claire, Helen and Graham Bibby, Anton and Sabine Richards and Philip and Genevieve Amaral; extended family and many, many friends and acquaintances.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Father David John at St. Rita’s Catholic Church on Saturday, October 4, 2014 followed by interment in Park Memorial Cemetery and a celebration of life.
Donations in Mila’s memory may be made to St. Rita’s Catholic Church, KRUNA, Doctors Without Borders or the SPCA.
Arrangements were in care of the Castlegar
Funeral Chapel.