Mrs. Billie Jean (Toler) Richard

Billie Jean Toler was born on October 13, 1932, in Hockley, Texas, to Andrew Charles Toler and Annie Mae Wallace Toler. She was the fifth of eight children born to this union.

She received her early education at Hockley Elementary School and later attended Prairie View Training School.

On December 27, 1953, Billie Jean was united in marriage to Joseph Richard. To this union, eight children were born.

Billie Jean worked faithfully in food service for many years, ultimately retiring from the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Food Service Department, in 2000, after more than 25 years of dedicated service. Retirement did not sit long with her, however, and after two short years, she returned to work with Spring Branch Independent School District as a bus aide for special needs children. She served with love and commitment for more than five years before entering her final retirement.

A devoted servant of the Lord, Billie Jean was a faithful and active member of St. James Missionary Baptist Church for 65 years. During her membership, she served in many capacities and found joy in contributing to the life of the church and its ministries.

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Billie Jean peacefully transitioned from this earthly life. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Richard; children Robert Chester Richard and Brenda Walker; stepchildren Joseph Richard Sr. and Emma Ruth Richard; her parents; brothers Alex Toler (Georgia Lee) and Walter Toler Sr. (Rosie, Ruthie Lee); sisters Ruth Butler (Louis), Gladys Brazos (Freeman), Clara Stewart (Burrell), and Constance Herrera (Pascual).

She leaves to honor her memory: her brother, Charles Toler Sr. (Velma); children Malinda Richard, Larry Richard, Mary Sue Hatter (Tom, deceased), Lester Richard (Angie), and Evetta Terry (Kenneth); stepchildren David Richard and Caroline Madding; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever treasure her love, wisdom, and devotion.