Alta Mae Nicholas Richards, 87 of Big Springs, WV; departed this earthly life in the morning hours of Sunday, March 8, 2026 at the Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston, WV; following an extended illness.
She was born June 12, 1938 in Calhoun County, daughter of the late Ralph “Swifty” and Ida (Whipkey) Nicholas.
Alta is a graduate of Calhoun County High School, class of 1956. She is a homemaker who loved caring for her family and is a Christian by faith. In her spare time, Alta enjoyed working with crafts, painting, baking, crocheting, traveling all over the US, and spending time with family and friends.
On December 15, 1956 Alta was united in marriage to Hobert Kent Richards, who preceded her in death on December 26, 2021.
Surviving are 5 children, Loren Richards of Big Bend, WV; Gretchen Boatright of Big Springs, WV; Neal Richards (Donna) of Grantsville, WV; Lyle Richards (Lydia) of Big Springs, and Eric Richards (Jennifer) of Big Springs, and 2 siblings, Phillip Nicholas (Sharon) and Sandra Ritcher (Chuck).
Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other wonderful family and friends.
Along with her husband (Hobert) and her parents (Swifty and Ida), Alta is preceded in death by 6 siblings, Charles, Ralph, Cleston, and Carol Nicholas, Colleen Burdette, and Phyllis Belt.
Alta’s request for cremation has been honored and a private celebration of her life will be conducted at a later date.
Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., is honored to assist the family of Alta Mae Nicholas Richards with cremation arrangements.
