It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Leta Chlottle Richards (nee Orr). Leta was born March 16th, 1937 in Orton, AB and passed away September 28th, 2024 in Victoria, BC at the age of 87. In between she lived in cities in Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, Holland and then finally in BC. Leta completed teacher training at the University of Alberta in Calgary and taught for a time before becoming too busy with children of her own.
She is survived by her seven children Robert Richards, Cyndy Richards (Kent Vickery), Dan Richards (Suzanne Richards), Lorelei Richards (Darren Lowe), Javonna Richards, Rachel Calder (Dave Calder), and David Richards and her grandchildren Matthew, Madelaine, Eliza (Randy), Devon, Henry, Claire, Javonna, Owen, Avery (Rebecca), Maisie, Mira and Bowen, and great grandchildren Rhyan and Elliot. She is also survived by her sister Patricia Anderson and Bruce Orr (Connie Orr). She was predeceased by her brothers Val and Morris Orr, and her parents Javona and Clarence Orr.
Leta (aka as Momma Leta) was extremely proud of all seven of her children but her grandchildren were her greatest pride and joy; she would tell anyone who would listen all about them. Leta loved having fun and being entertained, and besides family, her favorite pastime was dancing. She had a long history with the Victoria Ballroom Dance Society and spent many happy evenings dancing the night away. She also loved her time volunteering with the Victorian Heritage Fashion Society and participating in community tai chi. Leta attended the LDS Church and enjoyed the community, support and many friendships. Leta enjoyed gardening and loved the beautiful gardens at Luther Court, only to be outdone by Finnerty Gardens, and then Butchart Gardens.
Her dedication to garage sales and buffet restaurants affirmed a frugal life and the enjoyment of food. She loved looking at clouds, trees, flowers, and the beauty of nature. Leta was dubbed “Happy” by a grandchild and she was thrilled to take on such a nickname. Leta spent hours on the phone keeping up with family and friends. She fostered a budgie, Kirby, in her last year, who entertained her with their songs. Leta was truly one of a kind.
Thank you to her friends and family, the staff on 7 south at RJH, the Cridge Pharmacy Nurses and the staff at Luther Court for their kindness, compassion and care. Please contact a family member for details of the service.
It is with some sadness that I send a note of sympathy to all of Leta’s children as she will be greatly missed. The comforting knowledge of families being eternal blesses her departure. Just imagine the wonderful reunion taking place as she was greeted by her 2 brothers and parents. She has gone to her Heavenly home.
Love, Arlene (Champney)Litchfield
Sheila Strang misses Leta immensely as they have been best friends, cousins, since childhood.
The Andrew Hornberger family wishes the Richard’s family our condolences.
I will miss your amazing Mom also. She was a good friend and cousin. She could make me laugh and cry. She had wonderful talents and loved her children and grandchildren. Love Sheryl Vance
I will miss your amazing Mom and my Friend. Leta and I enjoyed many walks together in our Broadwood location. I will miss her and know that she loved her family so very much.
Katie McCue
Nuts, a typo in my note. I know my mom would say that it just doesn’t matter and support me and then distract me by talking about something she recently read, or thanking me for a book I gave her or wanting to go to some talk at the University or new exhibit somewhere…
When I was a teen explaining something, my momo would say: “Where thousands would not believe you. I believe you.”
She was supportive of everything I did, even if it was silly or some half-assed thing I made.
It seems the world is a little more lonely now, and her trip back to the stars has started.
Will miss having a mom around, but luckily I have lots of memories of her for all occasions: good, bad, funny, sweet, sad, and a few other words like that. I will recall them no matter what life has to offer.
Sweet dreams mom.
♥️ sending so much love, Rob. What a sweet note. Leta/Happy is truly missed dearly ♥️.