January 8
January 8
Am so happy that I can still use this platform to express my heart. You were the best mother ever.... I love you so much.
The verses above are from 2 Corinthians 5:6-8.
Please join us in celebrating the life and memory of Nancy Richards.
Family and friends will be greatly blessed, and her memory honored, if you share thoughts of her in the Tributes section below, post photos or videos of her in the Gallery section of this site, and especially share stories about her in the Stories section (see tabs above). All entries are welcome! Especially in light of the recent COVID-19 crisis, this site provides a way to share thoughts with family that might be impossible in person. We will keep this site available forever, so please return to add more memories and to experience the stories of others.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, her family requests that you donate to the people and the mission she held so dear and never quit fighting for: Kenya Islands Mission and SEEK Donate Site
The memorial service will take place at Parkway Church of God in Sevierville, TN (click link for map) on Sunday, July 5, 2020 at 4:00 pm Eastern Standard Time. Due to COVID-19 concerns, social distancing guidelines will be in place. We strongly encourage wearing masks and avoiding unnecessary physical contact. In order to protect the health of family and friends, and to provide this experience to those who love her around the world, the service will be available live by video through one of the following links: the Parkway Church of God Facebook site, or by Zoom: Nancy Richards Zoom Video Memorial Service.
Nancy lived a life of Christ-centered selflessness and service to her family and friends, and her countless sisters, brothers, and children through Christ. She was beloved by her husband, Don Richards, during their marriage of 25 years. She was a precious mother to her three sons, Mark, Aaron, and Bryan Donnell.
After graduating from Duke University, she raised her sons in Tennessee while teaching elementary school at Davidson Academy in Nashville and learning advanced teaching techniques through a masters degree in education. Once her boys had left the nest, she and Don embarked on a mission of sharing God's love and providing education and support in Kenya. In their passion to teach environmental stewardship and to care for orphans, widows, and a community of need, Nancy and Don founded S.E.E.K. (Suba Environmental Education of Kenya), formerly known as Kenya Islands Mission. https://www.facebook.com/SubaEnvironmentalEducationofKenya
You may see Nancy and Don explain the mission and see the beauty of S.E.E.K. in this 2012 video : https://youtu.be/DdRIWm1awOU
The following verses represent the hope and promises that Mom held during her recent battle with cancer.
Revelation 21:4 - He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.
2 Corinthians 4: 7-12 - But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18, 5:1-5 - Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
Please join us in celebrating the life and memory of Nancy Richards.
Family and friends will be greatly blessed, and her memory honored, if you share thoughts of her in the Tributes section below, post photos or videos of her in the Gallery section of this site, and especially share stories about her in the Stories section (see tabs above). All entries are welcome! Especially in light of the recent COVID-19 crisis, this site provides a way to share thoughts with family that might be impossible in person. We will keep this site available forever, so please return to add more memories and to experience the stories of others.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, her family requests that you donate to the people and the mission she held so dear and never quit fighting for: Kenya Islands Mission and SEEK Donate Site
The memorial service will take place at Parkway Church of God in Sevierville, TN (click link for map) on Sunday, July 5, 2020 at 4:00 pm Eastern Standard Time. Due to COVID-19 concerns, social distancing guidelines will be in place. We strongly encourage wearing masks and avoiding unnecessary physical contact. In order to protect the health of family and friends, and to provide this experience to those who love her around the world, the service will be available live by video through one of the following links: the Parkway Church of God Facebook site, or by Zoom: Nancy Richards Zoom Video Memorial Service.
Nancy lived a life of Christ-centered selflessness and service to her family and friends, and her countless sisters, brothers, and children through Christ. She was beloved by her husband, Don Richards, during their marriage of 25 years. She was a precious mother to her three sons, Mark, Aaron, and Bryan Donnell.
After graduating from Duke University, she raised her sons in Tennessee while teaching elementary school at Davidson Academy in Nashville and learning advanced teaching techniques through a masters degree in education. Once her boys had left the nest, she and Don embarked on a mission of sharing God's love and providing education and support in Kenya. In their passion to teach environmental stewardship and to care for orphans, widows, and a community of need, Nancy and Don founded S.E.E.K. (Suba Environmental Education of Kenya), formerly known as Kenya Islands Mission. https://www.facebook.com/SubaEnvironmentalEducationofKenya
You may see Nancy and Don explain the mission and see the beauty of S.E.E.K. in this 2012 video : https://youtu.be/DdRIWm1awOU
The following verses represent the hope and promises that Mom held during her recent battle with cancer.
Revelation 21:4 - He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.
2 Corinthians 4: 7-12 - But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18, 5:1-5 - Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
Tributes
Leave a tribute
March 21, 2022
March 21, 2022
I always visit this site to read what friends say about this great lady who came to Kenya specifically to see the lives of Children and Youth transformed holistically. I am a proud product of her visit to Kenya and promising to keep the fire burning...... Am a proud son.
July 12, 2020
July 12, 2020
Nancy was one of the sweetest people I'd ever known, and that smile of hers would light up a room (certainly lit up my heart). I was always so glad to see her and she was always glad to see me. Always looked forward to her and Don visiting at church and learning what they were up to. My prayers go out to Don, Mark and the rest of the family. May God be your comfort and peace. Nancy will always be in my heart.
July 8, 2020
July 8, 2020
I've lost my best friend but she's now found with Jesus. What a comfort that is to me. We met many years ago when she tutored my son, Jackson in the 3rd grade. If ever I was troubled she would immediately give me a scripture from memory that fit my need. Nancy knew God's Word. You might say "she walked it and talked it" every day. She was a light in the darkness and people were drawn to her. We had many Bible studies together and she taught me so much. What a blessing God gave us. Nancy was a true Soldier of the Lord!
July 5, 2020
July 5, 2020
We met Nancy for the first time in 2003, when her and Don came to visit us in Colorado. We knew we were going to be friends from the very beginning. That same year they invited us to visit them in Kenya, which was like a dream come true. All I can say is, that trip changed our lives and ministry forever. In 2007, we invited them to help us pioneer the EARS school in Costa Rica. Since then we have run 12 schools, without fail and sent teams all over the world. Our goal has always been to continue their vision to see sustainable development practiced all over the world. Their message and vision is empowering the poor and unreached in many places. Thanks to both Don and Nancy for being such an inspiration to us and so many others.
Nancy has been such a warm and encouraging person, always a joy to be around. She had a way of making you feel so welcome, as if you'd been friends with her for years. Although we have always been separated by many miles, we looked forward to those few, rich occasions when we could get together with them. Her homecoming in Heaven must have been an awesome celebration! We have loved you Nancy and will never forget you.
Nancy has been such a warm and encouraging person, always a joy to be around. She had a way of making you feel so welcome, as if you'd been friends with her for years. Although we have always been separated by many miles, we looked forward to those few, rich occasions when we could get together with them. Her homecoming in Heaven must have been an awesome celebration! We have loved you Nancy and will never forget you.
July 5, 2020
July 5, 2020
Thinking of Nancy now makes me think of stained glass and how it illuminates the spirit of God. I met Nancy in 1986 when Bryan was still in high school and they lived in Madison. I was struck, even then by the easy peace of that house. I know Bryan best but he, Aaron and Mark each bears the indelible mixture of moral courage, thoughtfulness, smarts, sweetness, and downright decentness you’d have seen and experienced not long after meeting Nancy.
Such a rarity.
Salt of the earth if there ever was.
Such a rarity.
Salt of the earth if there ever was.
July 5, 2020
July 5, 2020
It was a joy to meet Nancy at Sarah and Bryan's wedding. We clicked right away. As part of our conversation (we must have been talking about prayer, which we both believed in with all our hearts), I mentioned that I prayed for Bryan and Sarah every day, and she said that she would do the same for my children. So we prayed for each other's children for many years. Such a lovely thing. And she is such a lovely person, now in the presence of our Lord, seeing Him face to face. What must that be like??? We here "can only imagine".
July 5, 2020
July 5, 2020
I can say that it was a great blessing for me to get to know Nancy very well as our children were roughly in the same age group and they got along well, Mark with our son James, Aaron with our daughter Jennifer, and the older ones Bryan and Laura. We enjoyed their hospitality so much, and, though years have passed since that bond was formed, I always felt as though we could pick up again right where we left off. What a loving and forever faithful child of God she was. She leaves a big hole in my heart.
July 5, 2020
July 5, 2020
What do I say? Nancy was absolutely wonderful! She was kind and loving, deeply concerned about every detail of your need. She was full of brilliant ideas, and loved the truth. Always thinking about and praying for others even during her own suffering. She exemplified the love of Jesus and showed us what faith working through love looks like. It seemed that she never stopped thinking and caring about the orphans and widows in Africa.
During her walk with God here on the earth, she certainly left her footprint on my heart. I'm thankful that her suffering is over and that she's in the glorious presence of our God, although she will be missed by all of us.
During her walk with God here on the earth, she certainly left her footprint on my heart. I'm thankful that her suffering is over and that she's in the glorious presence of our God, although she will be missed by all of us.
July 3, 2020
July 3, 2020
How do I wake up from this long dream,, it's over 5 years since I talked to you, I knew we would meet one day but who's God?He had plans,,we can never question Him I know He had His own reasons for taking you this early, I cannot hold back my tears as I type this, you showed me love when everything went dark,, I believe we will meet in another life,, Rest in Peace mama
July 3, 2020
July 3, 2020
How do I wake up from this long dream,, it's over 5 years since I talked to you, I knew we would meet one day but who's God?He had plans,,we can never question Him I know He had His own reasons for taking you this early, I cannot hold back my tears as I type this, you showed me love when everything went dark,, I believe we will meet in another life,, Rest in Peace mama
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
My memories of Nancy are on an NC football weekend in 1967 at Duke, later at Elkmont in the Great Smoky Mountains, then in the mid-1970s and 1980s with her young family in Madison. She was a fine mother and teacher, a gracious hostess, and a good friend to me and my family in those years. From information here and on Facebook, I know that she did good works all her life. Such a wonderful person. I’m fortunate to have known her and my cousins Bryan, Mark, and Aaron long ago. You and all the family are in my thoughts.
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
Nancy came into our lives more than 25 years ago when she met my dad, Don, on a mission trip to the Amazon Jungle. Since the very beginning Nancy accepted us as one of her own children, loved us, prayed for us always - she was a mighty prayer warrior! If I had to choose one word to describe Nancy it would be "Joyful", she was always so full of Joy, no matter the circumstances, always encouraging us along whatever journey our life was taking us. Nancy was a very special lady and she leaves behind a wonderful legacy, not just in Kenya and all the lives she touched there, but with each and every person who was fortunate enough to have known her. Thank you Nancy for loving my dad, for living your life so sacrificially - your entry into Heaven I know was a glorious occasion and I take great comfort in knowing that we will meet again. We love you and will miss you so much!
Kim, Al, Chris, Jenna and Kathryn
Kim, Al, Chris, Jenna and Kathryn
July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
I haven’t seen her in 30 years, but I will always remember her for her gentleness, softness, and lullaby voice. I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to know her and share a portion of my life with her.
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
I was blessed to know Nancy because my mother was dear friends with her. I loved visiting Nashville and getting a big, joyous dose of hope from her..and her sons! They each were so strong, kind and respectful...
She was a Warrioress..a single mother, a beacon of truth and the most beautiful example of compassion and understanding I knew. It will always stir a smile when I think about how playful she could be with life but yet so reverent and true...
...Now I'm a mother with grown children, Nancy. May the essence of your contagious faith, integrity and loving strength instill inspiration before my path so I continue to be nourished and share these teachings by your example.
Celebrating your life!! Thank you Thank you Thank you
Infinite Love~ Jai Ma <3 Angel
She was a Warrioress..a single mother, a beacon of truth and the most beautiful example of compassion and understanding I knew. It will always stir a smile when I think about how playful she could be with life but yet so reverent and true...
...Now I'm a mother with grown children, Nancy. May the essence of your contagious faith, integrity and loving strength instill inspiration before my path so I continue to be nourished and share these teachings by your example.
Celebrating your life!! Thank you Thank you Thank you
Infinite Love~ Jai Ma <3 Angel
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
What an amazingly kind and beautiful person to be reunited with the creator! Nancy was my first Sunday School teacher and mother to some of my favorite people to have shared friendship. I used to spend a lot of time at her house in East Nashville when I was a teenager, and I don’t think I ever witnessed a single expression of anger from her over the years. What I did witness was one of the most consistently loving and graceful and accepting and encouraging people I’ve ever been blessed to know. She and her influence on her sons had a remarkable influence on me and I’m so thankful for being able to know her and see what amazing light she brought to all who crossed her path. I know in my heart that never has there been someone more welcomed in and suited for heaven. Much LOVE!
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
I went on my first mission trip to see Nancy and I was honored to host her in my home several times. I have so many memories. She was such an inspiration to me upon the death of my husband. She introduced me to missions. But what I remember is that she was always so optimistic and never got down. Like the time when their cabin burned down and they lost everything. She made that video about the cross that was left. No bitterness. I remember picking her up once at the airport after she flew by herself from Kenya with $1.00 in her pocket. Just look at this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1TfpeuIem4&fbclid=IwAR1I7GmfcJl41TtcRS2ec3ru1hUPc-YFQMm_PWjGFnVxv3x1c4WTosm0Aik.
Nancy what a treasure you were. To God be the Glory.
Nancy what a treasure you were. To God be the Glory.
July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
From your family at Christ's Gift Academy ~
Nancy Richards is the founding mother of Christ’s Gift Academy in Mbita.
If it were not for the obedient heart of Nancy and her dedication to the Word of God, Christ’s Gift Academy would not be here today. Nancy loved the LORD, listened to his voice and lived a life worthy of him. Early on in her life, she purposed to pursue the plans of the LORD no matter what it cost or where it took her.
Nancy first came to Mbita in 1995 with the Kingdom of God as her focus. She was willing to come alongside her husband, Don Richards, in fulfilling the vision God placed in his heart to reach the islands off the shore of Mbita through Biblical environmental education. Little did she know that God planted a dream in her own heart. Nancy quickly found a forgotten people group in Mbita: widows, orphans and the fatherless.
As a follower of Jesus Christ, Nancy unswervingly stood on the Word of God. She believed whatever was written was worthy of being walked out in our lives. Though Nancy wouldn’t be considered a “religious” person, she personified the words written in James 1:27, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted from the world.” In response to this scripture and the reality of life for widows, orphans and fatherless in Mbita, Nancy started Christ Gift Academy.
Many things have changed in Mbita since Don and Nancy made the three-day journey from Nairobi to their humble home on Lake Victoria in 1995. Development is displayed around the small fishing village that now registers as a “town”. Progress is evident, but none so positively proven as the ministry of Christ’s Gift Academy.
Nancy leaves a legacy in the lives of countless people who encountered the love of a gracious and compassionate Father God through her and through the plan of God which prevails in the ministry of Christ’s Gift Academy.
Nancy, a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ, loved the Word of God, honored and supported her husband, spoke truth with discernment and directness, humored others with her quick wit and welcomed all into her available and comfortable embrace will not be forgotten
Submitted by fellow missionary to the people of Mbita, Judi Cochran.
"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!" Matthew 25:21
We love you Don & Nancy. We thank God for your life and how you allowed Him to use you! We trust the ministry in Mbita will continue for many years... until God's Kingdom Comes to Kenya!!!
Our hearts reach out to Don and her sons you grieve the loss of this incredible woman in your lives! We pray you can celebrate her life with a peace in your heart because you know that she is with her Savior!!
Nancy Richards is the founding mother of Christ’s Gift Academy in Mbita.
If it were not for the obedient heart of Nancy and her dedication to the Word of God, Christ’s Gift Academy would not be here today. Nancy loved the LORD, listened to his voice and lived a life worthy of him. Early on in her life, she purposed to pursue the plans of the LORD no matter what it cost or where it took her.
Nancy first came to Mbita in 1995 with the Kingdom of God as her focus. She was willing to come alongside her husband, Don Richards, in fulfilling the vision God placed in his heart to reach the islands off the shore of Mbita through Biblical environmental education. Little did she know that God planted a dream in her own heart. Nancy quickly found a forgotten people group in Mbita: widows, orphans and the fatherless.
As a follower of Jesus Christ, Nancy unswervingly stood on the Word of God. She believed whatever was written was worthy of being walked out in our lives. Though Nancy wouldn’t be considered a “religious” person, she personified the words written in James 1:27, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted from the world.” In response to this scripture and the reality of life for widows, orphans and fatherless in Mbita, Nancy started Christ Gift Academy.
Many things have changed in Mbita since Don and Nancy made the three-day journey from Nairobi to their humble home on Lake Victoria in 1995. Development is displayed around the small fishing village that now registers as a “town”. Progress is evident, but none so positively proven as the ministry of Christ’s Gift Academy.
Nancy leaves a legacy in the lives of countless people who encountered the love of a gracious and compassionate Father God through her and through the plan of God which prevails in the ministry of Christ’s Gift Academy.
Nancy, a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ, loved the Word of God, honored and supported her husband, spoke truth with discernment and directness, humored others with her quick wit and welcomed all into her available and comfortable embrace will not be forgotten
Submitted by fellow missionary to the people of Mbita, Judi Cochran.
"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!" Matthew 25:21
We love you Don & Nancy. We thank God for your life and how you allowed Him to use you! We trust the ministry in Mbita will continue for many years... until God's Kingdom Comes to Kenya!!!
Our hearts reach out to Don and her sons you grieve the loss of this incredible woman in your lives! We pray you can celebrate her life with a peace in your heart because you know that she is with her Savior!!
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Don, Bryan, Mark, Kim, Alastair, and all my family, I love you. Mom, you are a part of my heart, my soul, my mind...in all that I do, in every loving and listening exchange I have with another person made in the image of God. May your compassion, your wit, your positivity, your intelligence, your faithfulness, and your steadfastness be bricks in my foundation as I enter the next phase of my life: a husband and a father of four who misses his Mom's words and gestures of love on Earth. Thank you for your generous love and praise.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
January 8
January 8
Am so happy that I can still use this platform to express my heart. You were the best mother ever.... I love you so much.
March 21, 2022
March 21, 2022
I always visit this site to read what friends say about this great lady who came to Kenya specifically to see the lives of Children and Youth transformed holistically. I am a proud product of her visit to Kenya and promising to keep the fire burning...... Am a proud son.
July 12, 2020
July 12, 2020
Nancy was one of the sweetest people I'd ever known, and that smile of hers would light up a room (certainly lit up my heart). I was always so glad to see her and she was always glad to see me. Always looked forward to her and Don visiting at church and learning what they were up to. My prayers go out to Don, Mark and the rest of the family. May God be your comfort and peace. Nancy will always be in my heart.
Gallery
Mom goofing around as a mountain mama..."You all git on out of here now, ye hear!!"
Her Life
Mom's Memorial Service
July 5, 2020
Nancy and Don Richards bear fruit in Kenya
June 30, 2020
See this 2012 video to get a lovely view of their personalities describing the fruit of their labors in Kenya.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider supporting Nancy's and Don's ongoing passionate work at Kenya Islands Mission and SEEK Donate Site
You may see more of their work at the links below:
https://www.facebook.com/SubaEnvironmentalEducationOfKenya/
https://www.facebook.com/christgiftacademy/
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider supporting Nancy's and Don's ongoing passionate work at Kenya Islands Mission and SEEK Donate Site
You may see more of their work at the links below:
https://www.facebook.com/SubaEnvironmentalEducationOfKenya/
https://www.facebook.com/christgiftacademy/
Nancy and Don escape fires burning their house
June 30, 2020
Nancy and Don escaped within minutes of their cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee catching fire and quickly burning to the ground in 2016. Three of the four road exits from their home were blocked, and they had to drive through fire engulfing the last road to save their lives. The following video captures a beautiful story about it and their personalities of gratitude and faith. Editorial: I could never get enough of that smile and the chuckle that represented her humor and humility.
Recent stories
June 26, 2023
by Mark Donnell
I've never shared here before. Until now it's been too painful, too close. But I have really enjoyed everyone else's stories and memories. They bring comfort and joy, so thank you all so much.
My mother was the greatest person I've ever known. I am so thankful to have learned from her, and hopefully inherited, a little bit of her wonderful spirit, her way of seeing the world, and treating others. Even when she was still with us, for most of my life, I've always looked for that spirit in others, and appreciated it so much where I've found it. Such a rare treasure, a gift of heaven to a world that needs it.
But everyone who knew her knew she had this special spirit, the spirit of Jesus. I just want to remember the day three years ago, the day her earthly body finally came to rest.
I was with her when she drew her final breath. It was an awful and awesome thing. On one hand, I wouldn't wish the incredible wrenching pain of that experience on anyone else. But on the other hand, I wouldn't trade the opportunity for anything in the world. I realize she was there when I drew my very first breath. And I treasure this memory, the sorrow and beauty of it, as one of the defining moments of my life.
Of course it's a mystery when and how the spirit leaves the body. The last times she was conscious and seemed to be lucid and engaged were with my brother Bryan and I a few days prior, when she was mostly unable to speak but her heavenly clear blue eyes expressed so much as we talked to her, I sang to her, and stroked her hand and hair.
It seems likely that she had already gone on to be with the Lord in spirit before that last day, when she was asleep and her body was still holding on. Either way, when we had all has a chance to say goodbye, the life support was turned off, and her body slowly stopped struggling and took its last breath... what I felt then at that moment, and still sometimes feel, as her youngest, loving child, her baby, was and is: where did you go, Mommy? Please come back. I feel that at the deepest level, with no answer. And I leave it at that, and just hope in the deepest places of my soul, that she is with me still, and I will be with her again someday. ❤️ Mark Emerson
My mother was the greatest person I've ever known. I am so thankful to have learned from her, and hopefully inherited, a little bit of her wonderful spirit, her way of seeing the world, and treating others. Even when she was still with us, for most of my life, I've always looked for that spirit in others, and appreciated it so much where I've found it. Such a rare treasure, a gift of heaven to a world that needs it.
But everyone who knew her knew she had this special spirit, the spirit of Jesus. I just want to remember the day three years ago, the day her earthly body finally came to rest.
I was with her when she drew her final breath. It was an awful and awesome thing. On one hand, I wouldn't wish the incredible wrenching pain of that experience on anyone else. But on the other hand, I wouldn't trade the opportunity for anything in the world. I realize she was there when I drew my very first breath. And I treasure this memory, the sorrow and beauty of it, as one of the defining moments of my life.
Of course it's a mystery when and how the spirit leaves the body. The last times she was conscious and seemed to be lucid and engaged were with my brother Bryan and I a few days prior, when she was mostly unable to speak but her heavenly clear blue eyes expressed so much as we talked to her, I sang to her, and stroked her hand and hair.
It seems likely that she had already gone on to be with the Lord in spirit before that last day, when she was asleep and her body was still holding on. Either way, when we had all has a chance to say goodbye, the life support was turned off, and her body slowly stopped struggling and took its last breath... what I felt then at that moment, and still sometimes feel, as her youngest, loving child, her baby, was and is: where did you go, Mommy? Please come back. I feel that at the deepest level, with no answer. And I leave it at that, and just hope in the deepest places of my soul, that she is with me still, and I will be with her again someday. ❤️ Mark Emerson
Bible verses shared by Don Richards
July 5, 2020
After the memorial service, Don regretted that he did not have time in the service to read Bible verses that he and my Mom would share daily in their readings and prayers. Here you go :)
Psalm 91: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” 3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. 4 He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge;
Psalm 91: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” 3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. 4 He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler. 5 You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, 6 Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you. 8 Only with your eyes shall you look, snd see the reward of the wicked.
9 Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, 10 No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. 12 In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone. 13 You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot. 14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. 15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation.”
Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
my cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Luke 11: Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” 2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say: our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
2 Corinthians 10: 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting
down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the
knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience
of Christ...
Ephesians 10: 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
July 5, 2020
by Kayla Kelley
My husband and I met Nancy and Don in 2013 when we went on a mission trip to S.E.E.K. Little did we know God was planting a seed in our hearts for Africa. Don and Nancy were true examples of disciples of Christ. They laid down everything to do what God had laid on their hearts. Our family hopes to be a part of S.E.E.K. one day soon. We are in Costa Rica getting training and just finished they School of Sustainable Development, the school that Don founded for YWAM (formerly EARS). We are forever changed by meeting Don and Nancy, and seeing how they lived their lives. God is so good!