Danny E. Richards

Danny E. Richards, 82, of Hewitt, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025. A service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:00 pm on May 5, 2025, at Grace Gardens Funeral Home Chapel, 8220 Woodway Dr., Woodway, TX 76712. A reception will follow the memorial service at the funeral home.

Danny was born in Magnolia, Arkansas, and raised in Corsicana, Texas. A proud graduate of Longview High School, Class of 1961, Danny was a gifted left-handed pitcher with a promising future in baseball. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates but, at his father's urging, chose to attend college instead. He accepted a full scholarship to Centenary College, where he played baseball for two seasons before deciding to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He served honorably for six years.

In 1964, Danny married the love of his life, Julie Anne Lasiter, at First Baptist Church in Longview, TX. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and community. He was a devoted husband to Julie, father to two sons Keith and Jason, and proud grandfather to Andrew, Austin, and Ansley Richards.

Danny worked for over 35 years as a safety inspector with Eastman Chemical Company, where he was known for his diligence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to his colleagues. In the late 1970s, he pursued his lifelong dream of cattle ranching, spending his later years tending the land with the same dedication he brought to every aspect of his life.

A passionate outdoorsman, Danny loved to hunt and fish, and he was a skilled golfer with a single-digit handicap for most of his life - he's still mad that he never had a hole-in-one. He also served faithfully as a deacon and taught young couples in Sunday School for over 15 years, providing mentorship and encouragement to many.

Danny was known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor. He never missed an opportunity to make someone smile, and his joy for life left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Most of all he would want everyone to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Halcyon Foundation, LLC., a hospice provider whose care and compassion brought comfort in his final days.

Danny's life was full of love, laughter, and service. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.