Audra Montgomery Richardson, 94 years old, of Sylvatus, Virginia, went home to Heaven Saturday, June 3, 2023.  She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.  She is preceded in death by her husband of 64 years Connie W. Richardson, son Martin Richardson, brother Deward J. Montgomery, and nephew Steven Douglas Montgomery.

She is survived by children Tom Richardson and wife Diane Kurstedt, Gwen Loftis, and Colin Richardson and wife Shirley, 14 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, many cousins, nieces and nephews, including special niece Rebecca (Becky) Montgomery Carlson and husband, John, of Boise, Idaho.

Audra graduated from Sylvatus School and attended Radford College, obtaining her teaching degree at age 18 and returning to teach at Sylvatus School.

She raised her children and ran their farm while her husband was a long haul trucker.  She was a charter and active member of Sylvatus Christian Church until the age of 92, helping raise money for the construction of the building they meet in today. Audra was active in the Sylavtus Ruritan Club where she was well known for her angel biscuits and apple turnovers. She was active in getting public water brought to the Little Vine, Sylvatus and Mitchells Crossroads communities.

Audra enjoyed horseback riding and taking her children and friends on trail rides. She was well known for her marksmanship with her rifle and the .38 she always carried in her purse.

She and her mother-in-law, Agnes Richardson and two aunts enjoyed many hours making handstitched quilts.  She was still crocheting afghans for family and friends well into her 90's.

The family will be receiving friends Thursday, June 8, 2023 at 1 p.m. with the funeral service following at 2 p.m. at Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel in Hillsville, Virginia.   Pastor David Bays and Chaplain Darren Lambert will perform the service. Burial will follow at the Lewis Cemetery on Sylvatus Highway (Route 100).

Since Audra was so community oriented, in lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to a local charity or organization in Audra's memory.

Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.