James Philip Richards

            James Philip Richards, 88 of Altoona died Monday afternoon March 23, 2020 at his residence.

            He was born March 13, 1932 in Altoona a son of the late David James and Pearl Mabel (Bradley) Richards. Following the death of his father, James was raised by his mother and step-father, James Beaver. He married Judith A. Burket on January 31, 1976 at Second Avenue United Methodist Church, Altoona.

            Surviving are his wife, Judy; two sons, James L. Richards of Altoona and Robert C. Richards (Beth) of Dysart; five grandchildren, Stephanie Hollen; James Richards, Jr. (Traci); Janene Reynolds (Matt); Robbie McMasters (Shannon); and Ian Richards; numerous great grandchildren; a sister, Esther Burns (Russ) of Altoona; a brother, Barry Beaver of California; two sisters-in-law, Jane Richards and Maddie Beaver and numerous extended family; and his beloved dogs, “Oreo and Bob”.

            James was preceded in death by a daughter, Karen Jo Richards; and sisters Elva Caputo and Nancy Rossiter and brothers Gordon Richards and Bill Beaver.

            Mr. Richards was a member of Second Avenue United Methodist Church, Altoona.

            He was a 1951 graduate of Altoona High School.

            James was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during the Korean Conflict era.

            He retired as a bus driver for AMTRAN in 2000 following seventeen years’ service. He had previously been employed by Maierhofer Bakery.

            He enjoyed watching sports, exercising at the “Summit”, hunting, fishing, karate, Tae Kwon Do, and painting in art class. He also enjoyed volunteering at the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center on the fifth floor.

            James was a member of Hiram Lodge #616, F & AM; the Bavarian Aid Society and the Riggles Gap Sportsmans Club.

            He was a former member of the Altoona Consistory and the Jaffa Shrine Drum & Bugle Corps.

            He was known as “Greyhound Daddy” or “Greyhound Man” by his Monica’s Heart family.

            A future Celebration of Life is planned to be held at Second Avenue United Methodist Church, Altoona.

            The family suggests, memorial donations please be made to Monica’s Heart, 1887 Bellemead Drive, Altoona, PA 16602 which was founded by his wife Judy and Kay McNelis.

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