Lasting Memories

Barbara Jean Richards
March 10, 1921-Aug. 9, 2011
Atherton, California

Barbara Richards, 90 a longtime Atherton resident died in her home August 9, 2011.

Born Barbara Jean Smith, in San Francisco on March 10, 1921, she was the only child of Edward Converse and Nyra Lydia (Beck) Smith.

She attended Lowell High School and studied Political Science at Stanford University, where she made many life-long friends. The ?Whiskin? Wabbits? (her college badminton-playing pals) gathered for reunions every year until recently.

Barbara graduated from Stanford University in 1942 and in September of that year she joined the WAVES in Washington, D.C. where she achieved the rank of lieutenant by the war?s end.

Upon leaving the Navy, Barbara began working for the phone company where she established many lasting friendships.

Enjoying all aspects of classical music, Barbara delighted in her evenings spent at the Opera, ballet and local choir concerts. She performed with both the Stanford Chorale and the Menlo Park Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir for over 20 years. In fact, her singing teacher introduced her to her husband of 53 years, Jack Richards.

She stayed at home to raise her children but was actively involved with the schools, PTAs and as a Girl Scout Leader. She also volunteered with the Stanford Music Guild and the South Peninsula Chapter of the SF Opera Action Guild, where she was recently recognized for over 50 years of service including two terms as Chapter President.

Barbara and Jack were members of the Menlo Park Presbyterian Church where they actively participated in Bible Study groups and Couples Club.

As the kids got older, Barbara returned to the work force, this time at SRI where she worked with Dr. Villard in the Ionospheric Dynamics Lab. After retirement, Barbara and Jack enjoyed camping in California and once drove up to Alaska?s Kenai Peninsula.

She avidly followed Stanford women?s basketball games and attended games often.

She is survived by her children, Ruth Androwsky (her husband Paul and their children Donna and Stephen) of Fremont, and John Richards (his wife Angela and her daughter Alexandra) of Palo Alto.