Caroline Elizabeth Ward Richards

Caroline Elizabeth Ward Richards, age 86, of Tallahassee, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on September 25, 1939, in Graceville, FL, Caroline was the daughter of Mattie Mae and A.C. Ward. She was raised in Jackson County and carried the values of faith, family, and hard work with her throughout her life.

Caroline devoted more than 30 years of service to Envision Credit Union, where her career reflected both innovation and steady leadership. She was originally hired in 1975 to manage the checking account program—a pioneering effort for credit unions at the time. Throughout her tenure, she transitioned through several roles and ultimately retired as executive secretary to the Executive Vice President at Envision Credit Union. She was widely respected for her dedication, professionalism, and reliability, and she also served as a trusted personal resource to colleagues and leadership alike.

Caroline was known for her strength, unwavering faith, and deep love for her family. She was happiest when gathering loved ones together. A faithful servant of the church, Caroline and her husband, Dewitt, faithfully served for many years as Rainbow leaders, lovingly caring for and sharing Jesus with the toddlers of their church community. She also served as a parent leader in the church youth group, investing in the lives of countless children and families over the years.

Caroline also had a love for travel and adventure. She was always ready for the next trip, often keeping a bag packed and prepared to go at a moment’s notice. Whether traveling near or far, she treasured the memories made with family and friends along the way.

She is survived by her granddaughters, Hope Richards and Joy Richards; her daughter-in-law, Stephanie Richards; her sister, Lynell Morris (Jerry); and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth “Dewitt” Richards Sr.; her son, Kenneth “Ken” Dewitt Richards Jr.; her granddaughter, Faith Richards; her parents; her brother, James Albert Ward; and her sister-in-law, Geraldine Ward.

A graveside service celebrating Caroline’s life will be 11:00 AM Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Culley's Meadowwood Cemetery at 700 Timberlane Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32312, with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Freedom Church of Tallahassee.