Clarence was born November 20, 1937 in Canton, Mississippi to Alice Bass and Moses Jones. Adopted by Ethel and James Richards. He graduated from Madison High School in Canton. Following graduation he joined the U.S. Air Force. His tours of duty included Lackland AFB, Texas, Kelly AFB, Texas, Kessler AFB, Mississippi, Turkey, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska and Goodfellow AFB, Texas. Clarence served his country honorably for twenty years. He also retired from Ethicon a division of Johnson and Johnson.
Clarence united with Crenshaw Memorial Church, now known as United Community Church. He wanted to accompany the pianist so he donated an organ to the church. He later organized a singing group call The Independent Singers of God.
Clarence was the first President of the MLK Committee, which later became an association. Programs are planned each year to bring the community together. He loved to bowl and cook. He also loved watching wrestling.
Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and three brothers. Survivors include his loving wife Jean Cole Richards, three daughters, Johnnie M. Harris of Canton, Miss, Tiwana Luckett (Michael) of Converse, TX and Sharon McCarty (Leo) of San Angelo, TX, two sisters, Rozella Davis and Helen Woodruf both of Canton, Mississippi, grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and god sister, Sarita Ferguson. Extended family, Susan Mackey, Mr. and Mrs. Yanz Pablo, Mr. and Mrs. Horace Nichols and a host of other family and friends.
A visitation for Clarence will be held Friday, January 12, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson's Funeral Home, 435 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, Texas 76903. A celebration of life service will occur Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Johnson's Funeral Home.
Clarence will be laid to rest in Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens, 4989 FM 1223, San Angelo, Texas 76905-2912.
