Thomas Parker Richards

Thomas Parker Richards, born October 17, 1942, to Lewis and Mary Richards of Independence, Missouri, passed on February 13, 2025, surrounded by his family. Tom is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jane Marie Richards; three children, Paul, Ann, and Aaron; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Together, Tom and Jane served their community in the city of Independence as owners of Richards Sunfresh in Susquehanna and through civic service. Tom held multiple leadership positions as an Evangelist priesthood holder and pastor of numerous Community of Christ congregations; President of Independence Rotary Club; Chairman of the Independence Chamber of Commerce; and board member of Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City, The Groves Assisted Living Facility, and Blue Ridge Bank and Trust.

A gifted minister with a memorable sense of humor, Tom left an impact on all of us blessed with the gift of knowing him as employer, colleague, pastor, and friend. Most of all, he gave his children and grandchildren wisdom, guidance, and complete unconditional love that will ripple on for generations. Any good we do in our lives belongs to his legacy. 

Visitation will be held at 1pm on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Speaks Chapel, 18020 East 39th Street South, in Independence, Missouri, with service to begin at 2pm.