Bert Robertson Richards

**In Loving Memory of Bert Robertson Richards**

Bert Robertson Richards, a cherished soul and beloved family member, was born on September 20, 1931, in Roland, Oklahoma, to Flossie Ethel (Price) Richards and William Herbert Richards. As the middle child in a loving family of five, Bert's life has been a testament to the power of love and togetherness. He passed away at the age of 94 on January 29, 2026, in Claremore, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy of warmth that will be profoundly missed.

Bert's commitment to service led him to be drafted into the U.S. Army on October 22, 1952. After basic training at Fort Sill and Fort Chaffee, he married the most beautiful girl in the world and love of his life, Miss Peggy Jordan, only days before being deployed. Their love story began in earnest as they embarked on their separate journeys—Bert traveling by train from Kansas City to San Francisco where he boarded a ship to Japan to be stationed in Korea. He served in the 45th Infantry Division with the 160th Field Artillery Battery A. He was a forward observer on the front line at the 38th Parallel who lived in a dugout in the ground. They located the enemy and reported back to Battery A Headquarters, while his new bride traveled across the country by car to California where she anxiously awaited his safe return. Their 71 years of marriage blossomed with joy, companionship, and unwavering support until Peggy’s passing on September 23, 2024.

Following his honorable discharge, Bert and Peggy lived in California, where they welcomed their two sons into the world. Eventually, they returned to Oklahoma in 1964, where Bert dedicated himself to his work as an inspector for the Oklahoma Highway Department in Sallisaw until his retirement. His commitment to education shone brightly as he served on the school board of Gans Public Schools for many years. Bert was also a proud 32nd Degree Mason and a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Roland, where his gentle spirit touched the lives of many.

Known affectionately as Papa Bert, he had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcomed and cared for. His kindness and warmth created a space of love that will forever be remembered by all whose lives he enriched.

Bert leaves behind his two sons, Mike and Deloris Richards of Roland, OK, and Paul and Kim Richards of Sallisaw, OK; four adoring grandchildren: Dave and Sarah Richards of Liberty, OK, Daniel and Kensey Richards of Roland, OK, Stephanie and Dr. Weston Choate of Sallisaw, OK, and Jordan Richards of Sallisaw, OK; and ten cherished great-grandchildren: Michala, Reed, and Ross Richards; Talon and Tye Richards; and Benjamin, Katie, Abigale, Megan, and Rilee Choate. Additionally, Bert is survived by his brother Gary Richards of Roland, OK, his brother-in-law JC Jordan of Fort Smith, AR, and several loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Peggy; his parents; one sister, Nancy Pyle; two brothers, Orville and JV Richards; and one daughter-in-law, Debbie Richards.

A funeral service in honor of Bert’s life will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the Eastside Freewill Baptist Church in Muldrow, Oklahoma, followed by burial at Roland City Cemetery. Active pallbearers will include Dr. Weston Choate, Jordan Richards, David Richards, Daniel Richards, Johnny Richards, and Gary Lee Richards, with honorary pallbearers Joe Ryan, Archer Ryan, Kenny Pyle, Troy Richards, Ronnie Rogers, Myron Lockwood and Ken Clark. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during viewing hours on Saturday from noon to 4 PM and Sunday from 2 to 8 PM at the Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Muldrow, where the family will be available from 4 to 6 PM on Sunday.

As we gather to celebrate the remarkable life of Bert Robertson Richards, let us remember the kindness he shared, the love he inspired, and the many joyful moments that will continue to resonate in our hearts. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the stories we share and the love we carry forward.