Ms. Willie Mae Richardson

Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad. Psalms 126:2-3 Willie Mae Richardson, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025. Born on September 27, 1947, to the late Nathaniel and Martha Wright, Willie Mae was raised in Arlington, Virginia, where she was educated in the Arlington County public school system. She was a graduate of Wakefield High School. At an early age, Willie Mae joined Macedonia Baptist Church, where she was baptized at the age of 12. Her love for the church and devotion to her faith were evident throughout her life. She sang in the church choir from childhood into adulthood, served as a junior usher, and found joy in teaching new discipleship classes, helping guide others on their spiritual journey. Willie Mae married the late Paul Vaughn Richardson, and to this union, they welcomed their daughter, Christina. After the marriage ended, she met her devoted companion, William "Wimpy" Byrd, with whom she shared many joyful years before his passing. Willie Mae began her career with the U.S. Postal Service in the late 60s. before transitioning to the Army Discharge Review Board. She later returned to the Postal Service, where she dedicated 32 years of service before retiring in 2003. Her love for music continued throughout her life. On October 22, 2013, she united with Greater Saint John Cathedral, where she sang with the Gospel Choir and T.C. Dixon Mass Choir and actively participated in many Senior-R-Us events. She also cherished singing with her cousins at family gatherings and reunions, always bringing warmth and joy to those around her. Willie Mae was the life of the party-jovial, full of laughter, and always ready to enjoy time with family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel and Martha Wright; her beloved son, Ervin L. Richardson; her dear sister, Mary J. Goodine; and her devoted companion William (Wimpy) Byrd. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Christina (Tony) Williams; her two bonus sons Patrick and Timothy Richardson; her adored grandson, Mehki Williams; her devoted brothers, Charlie (Karen) Talley, Wilbert (Jane) Talley, Roger (Barbara) Talley, and Richard (Joan) Talley; her two closest friends, Violet Terry and Mary Walker; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Willie Mae's legacy of love, laughter, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her presence was a blessing, and she will be deeply missed. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Greater Saint John Cathedral, 11425 Old Marlboro Pike, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. Viewing will begin at 10:00 am and the service will begin at 11:00 am.

Ms. Willie Mae Richardson

September 27, 1947 - March 24, 2025