Eleanor Richards, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend was called safely home on July 11,2024 in the comfort of her family. Born on January 21, 1927, to the late Paul and Mabel (Carlton) Ezekiel in Longmeadow, Eleanor was raised in Agawam graduating from Agawam High School class of 1945. She wed the love of her life, Harry Richards, and together they began their journey and welcomed their two children. She took immense pride in creating a loving, nurturing environment for her family and welcomed each day as a challenge to express her thankfulness for all God had provided in her life. She chose a career in the insurance field and was a valued member of the team at Mass Mutual for many years. Eleanor enjoyed being involved in her community and was a member of the Republican Town Committee, the Agawam Lioness and was a Town Meeting Member. She also volunteered for the American Red Cross. In her leisure Eleanor was an avid reader and had a great love for animals. Her love for her family was unwavering and unconditional, defining the very essence of who she was. Eleanor lived with God in her heart, joy in her words and love in her every action. She will be deeply missed, and the impact of her life will continue through the memories shared by those who loved and had the honor of knowing her.

Surviving Eleanor are her devoted children, Steven and his wife Lea of Feeding Hills and Pamela and her husband William Melbourne of Ludlow. To carry on her legacy, she leaves her cherished grandchildren Carrie Smith, Eric Richards, Daniel Richards, Michael Richards and great grandchildren Cam Smith, Aida Smith, Jaxson Richards, Amilia Richards and Lily Richards. She will be missed by her small extended family and many friends. Eleanor was predeceased by her beloved husband Harry and her siblings George Ezekiel, Barbara Hawthorne, and Edith Pomeroy.

Visitation with the family will be held on Wednesday July 17,2024 from 9-10 A.M. at the Agawam Funeral Home 184 Main Street concluding with a service beginning at 10 A.M. Committal will follow at 11 A.M. at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery. For those wishing to remember Eleanor in a special way the family suggests donations be made to the Dakin Humane Society 171 Union Street Springfield 01105.