Edytha May Richard

Edytha M. Richard, 86, passed away peacefully in the comfort and care of her family, Gentiva Hospice, and the compassionate staff of The Lodges at Oak Grove in Groves, Texas, on Monday, January 19th, 2026.

Edytha May was born on September 12, 1939, in the beef and dairy farmland of Cottage Hill, Florida. She was the only daughter of John R. Creighton and Edytha Forest, her namesake. She spent her early childhood and teenage years in the Florida Panhandle before relocating to Southeast Texas in the 1970s.

She was married to Edward J. Richard of Vidor, who preceded her in death.

Edytha was strong-willed and witty, with a keen sense of curiosity, independence, and adventure. She owned and operated Nana’s Daycare Center of Vidor and later served as an Executive Assistant to the General Manager of a major corporation before retiring.

Her and Edward’s careers took them to Sulphur, Louisiana, where they lived until retirement, after which they returned to Vidor. The devastation of Hurricane Harvey and their declining health led to their relocation to Port Neches. Following Edward’s passing and as her health continued to decline, Edytha moved to The Lodges at Oak Grove, where she received wonderful, compassionate, and affectionate care until her passing.

Edytha is survived by her three loving children and their spouses: Forest Barber of Port Neches and her husband, Wayne; Seaborn Chavers of Kentucky and his wife, Debbie; and Belinda Norman of Bridge City and her husband, Morris. She is predeceased by her son, Van Chavers, and daughter, Rebekah Neese.

She is also survived by two stepchildren: Michael Richard of Florida and Stephen Richard of Vidor and his wife, Donna. Edytha leaves behind eleven grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Edytha will be remembered for her witty humor, spirited personality, and her habit of scampering about barefoot. Her family celebrates her caring heart and the loving way she touched the lives of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to … humane society of SETX.

A Visitation and Celebration of Life Service will be held on January 28, 2026, at Memorial Funeral Home of Vidor, 1750 Hwy 12, Vidor, Texas 77662. Visitation will begin at 11:30 am, followed by the Celebration of Life Service at 12:30 pm. She will be laid to rest at Restlawn Memorial Park of Vidor.