Avenell (Groves) Richards

Grace Avenell Richards of St. James passed peacefully on Thursday May 23, 2019 at the St. James Living Center. She was 91 years of age.

Grace, was known by her family and friends as Avenell, born February 27, 2019 in Taney County near Branson, the daughter of the late John and Mary Amos Groves

Avenell was united in marriage to Carl Roark Sr, he entered into rest April 16, 2010. She then married Lawrence P. Richards. He passed away October 26, 2015.

She is survived by one son: Carl Roark Jr., and his wife Norma of Rolla; Daughters Pat Skyles of St. James; Billie Day and husband Louie of St. Clair; Pam Branstetter and husband Dick of St. James and Anita Plemmons and husband Don of St. James. She is further survived by 13 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 5 Great Great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, 6 brothers: Billy, Asa, Dan, Perry, Howard and Ezra., three sisters: Naomi Norris, Meek Groves, Wilma Harrimann, and one grandson Danny.

Avenell Richards was a happy energetic person who always had a smile. She was always on the go. She was a senior champion for 27 years working at the Missouri Veterans Home and Nursing homes. She was musically gifted and played several instruments and enjoyed singing. Avenell always kept busy with her flowers, which included her African violets, quilting or giving her dog Teddy a ride in the car. She was a member of the First Assembly of God in St. James since 1961. She loved the Lord and proclaimed his word daily. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Avenell Richards will lie in state from 6-8 p.m. Saturday May 25, 2019 at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James.

Funeral Service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Sunday May 26, 2019 at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, with Mick Thrasher officiating. Pallbears will be Shawn Roark, Brian Roark, Tony Roark, Dave Watkins, David Bartle and Jeff Weeks. Burial will be in the St James Cemetery. Memorials my be given to the First Assembly of God Church Children's Fund.

Send flowers, condolences or memorial gift to the family of Avenell Richards at www.jonesfunerals.com

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James.

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