Margie Richards, 82, of Early, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. A visitation with family will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Heartland Funeral Home and her service will be at 10:00 AM, Friday, May 9, 2025 in the Heartland Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Eastlawn Memorial Park in Early.
Margie was born October 30, 1942, in Brownwood, Texas, Margie spent her life surrounded by family, friends, and the familiar charm of her hometown roots. She was a proud graduate of Early High School, class of 1961, where she shined as a cheerleader, basketball player, and was crowned Homecoming Queen.
After high school, Margie began her career as a telephone operator with General Telephone Electric (GTE), a journey that would span decades and evolve into a role as a Dispatch Operator for Verizon, from which she retired in 2006. Her career took her to many places, including Brownwood, San Angelo, Irving, Denton, and even St. Louis, Missouri – but no matter where life led her, Margie always carried her Texas pride with her.
Margie was a loving mother to two children, Jaimi Villarreal (Victor) and Mark Hunt (Aletta Joy Henderson). She was a devoted and special Mother, Sister, Aunt, and Friend, known for her warm heart and unwavering care for those around her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Anita Middleton, and her brother, Garland Middleton. Left to cherish her memory are her brother Larry Middleton, sister-in-law Francene Middleton, her beloved grandchildren Gavin and Giselle, nieces and nephews Derek, Debbie, Dawna, Drue, Dustin, Sarah, McKinlee, Kannon and so many other cherished family members.
Margie’s passions in life centered around her love for family, friends, and her favorite sport – NASCAR. A devoted fan of Dale Earnhardt, she never missed a race and always cheered with heart. She was also known for her love of country and western music and could two-step with the best of them, whether at the Top Rail in Dallas or dancing across Missouri during her time there.
Always the memory keeper, Margie rarely went anywhere without her camera in hand. She created and maintained countless photo albums, preserving a rich family history that stretches back to the 1800s. Holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, reunions – she never missed a chance to celebrate life’s special moments and made sure everyone felt remembered and loved.
Her caring spirit, infectious joy, and thoughtful traditions – from birthday cards to holiday gatherings – will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
We love you and miss you, Mom. Until we meet again.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net
