Gloria Yvonne Woods Richards

Mrs. Gloria Yvonne Woods Richards was born on February 11, 1944, in Harlem, New York, to the late Louise Smart McKenzie and Henry Mitchell. On May 5, 2026, she peacefully transitioned at her home in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by those who cherished her dearly. Gloria graduated from William Howard Taft High School in the Bronx, New York. She later earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the College of New Rochelle in New Rochelle, New York. Her faith and commitment to the church were foundational parts of her life. She was an active and devoted member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where she sang in the Gospel Choir and served on the Finance Committee, Trustee Board, and many other ministries. In 1969, Gloria united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Emanuel Hezekiah Richards Jr. They shared 47 years of marriage. Together, they raised their daughter, Gia Richards-Byrd. After relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, Gloria and her husband were also joined by their granddaughter, Gabrielle, whom they lovingly helped raise. While in Charlotte, she became a member of Simpson-Gillespie United Methodist Church, where she served faithfully. She sang in the Gospel Choir, participated in the United Methodist Women organization, and served as a Communion Steward. Her dedication to helping others extended far beyond the church walls. She spent many years working with CMS as a substitute teacher. Gloria also volunteered with Friendship Trays, participated in the CROP Walk and HELP (Helping Empower Local People), and devoted her time to feeding the homeless at the men’s shelter. She was a proud member of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Incorporated (N.A.N.B.P.W.), where she held several leadership positions. She was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching many teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees, and Charlotte Hornets. Above all, Gloria treasured time spent with family and friends. She will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and unwavering love for those around her. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Ada Challenger and Rebecca Odom; and her brothers, Norman Woods and Leroy Woods, affectionately known as “Sonny.” Gloria leaves to cherish her loving memory her daughter, Gia Richards-Byrd (Kevin); her bonus son, Emanuel Tyrone Richards (Sandra Michelle Richards) of Greensboro, North Carolina; six grandchildren, Gabrielle Shavuo, Kayla Byrd, Kamryn Byrd, Kol Byrd, Ronisha Richards, and Asyia Miller; ten great-grandchildren; her brother, Richard Woods (Wiletha Woods); her sisters, Albertha Wallace and Joyce Creque; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Gloria Yvonne Woods Richards

February 11, 1944 - May 5, 2026