Elaine Whitley Richards Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Elaine Whitley Richards of Albemarle, North Carolina, who passed away on July 12, 2025, at the age of 72, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

In the echoes of fond remembrance, may a sense of peace be found, knowing that the memories held dear will continue to shape and inspire her loved ones, keeping Elaine Whitley's spirit alive in the hearts and actions of family and friends alike. While her presence may be gone, her impact lives on in the kindness shown to others and the joy found in the ordinary moments of life.

She was predeceased by: her parents, Billy Jay Whitley and Mary Louise Springer Whitley; and her son Jeff Richards. She is survived by: her husband Sonny Richards; her daughter Jennifer Richards of Albemarle; and her sisters, Teresa Whitley Smith (Tony) of New London and Karen D. Whitley of Summerville, SC..

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Stanly County Humane Society, 2049 Badin Road, Albemarle, NC 28001—a cause close to Elaine's heart.