In Memory of Claudette (Spiffy) Richards

Our mother, Claudette, more commonly known as “Spiffy,” passed away on November 18, 2022, just one month shy of her 84th Birthday. That day, a 64-year Love affair was shattered. Our father, Dean, now must go forward with just her memory. Their story is not atypical of their generation. Married in 1958, they had their 1st child, our late brother Allen in 1958 and their last child, our brother Dean in 1965. In between, there was Darlene in ‘60 and twins Donna and Don in ‘62. Dean and Claudette devoted their lives to us. Just imagine the 25 years of our collective youths and the expenses they endured during that period.

Like most all parents, they made sacrifices for our sake that denied them luxuries they could have had for themselves. Their selflessness is considered heroic in our books. Our family grew at a time when 401k’s did not exist, and pensions were reserved for Civil Servants. For Dean and Claudette, savings was a Christmas Club (for us, of course) or saving meant simply spending less. They both worked while raising us and continued to work in some form or fashion into their late 70’s early 80’s to make ends meet.

Along with having each other, they were blessed to be surrounded by their family, which continued to grow over the years. Their five children, ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, beloved dog/companion (Freddie), and endless circle of friends were all that mattered to them. Their ability to share their love for one another with their family and friends is what allowed them to live happily.

This fall, our parents had a flood in their home that resulted in a complete loss of their kitchen, estimating significant expense repairs beyond what insurance will cover. Anyone who knew Spiffy knew her passion for cooking. In some light humor, losing her kitchen can be considered equivalent to a Politician losing their Twitter account. In addition to losing her kitchen, a procedure on her back shortly after took away her ability to play golf (perhaps the only passion that took precedence over cooking in her later years). Knowing our mother the way we do, we can assure you that this loss played a big part in us losing her on November 18th.

Now our dad is tasked with picking up the pieces – which he will do with the support of his children. However, the journey will be without the Love of his life, the woman responsible for successfully getting them this far in life together. While Claudette got out of bed every morning to live life to the fullest with her cooking and golf passions, Dean simply got out of bed every morning for Claudette.

On a practical note, our dad’s income will be reduced dramatically – the reality is Social Security stops when we do. We know our mother would want our dad to be taken care of in her absence, and we plan to do that. The last thing we want is for him to worry about expenses, kitchen repairs beyond insurance coverage, or anything else.

We appreciate all the love and support everyone has shown our family so far. Claudette (Spiffy) would be in awe.