Mrs. Nettie L. (Herron) Richardson

UTICA - Mrs. Nettie L. (Herron) Richardson, age 82, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 and is now in the presence of the Lord. At the time of her passing at MVHS at St. Luke’s Healthcare, she was in the heart of her loved ones, especially her grandson Anthony, her primary caregiver. Born in Clayton, Alabama on May 4, 1937, Nettie was the daughter of the late Marvin and Tannie Herron. Raised and educated in Clayton, she completed her secondary education in that community. In the 1960’s she came to the Utica area to have new beginnings with family who welcomed her. She was married to Deacon George Richardson in the summer of 1973. They had a fun-loving relationship, but their commitment to their family was foremost. They were grounded in their church community and had plentiful memories of dining out after Sunday services. Her beloved George passed away in 1993. During her working years, Nettie was employed by Revere Copper and Brass, Inc. and later at the Utica Corporation where she began as an Assembler and was promoted to Supervisor. A community minded woman, Nettie was looked upon by many as a mother figure, and by her loved ones as a beloved matriarch. She had a genuine affection for the wellbeing of people and was the go-to person in her earlier years which was followed up by being a remarkable caretaker to those in her life who needed her utmost attention. Her deep love of the Lord was illuminated from a bright spot in her soul. Nettie was blessed with powerful vocals and joined forces with “The Gospel Nightingales” serving the Utica/Rome communities in lifting their voice in praise of the Lord. Driven by her inner spirituality, Nettie’s kindness, compassion, and empathy was sincerely expressed and received. She called on heaven to fulfill the petitions and prayers for blessings to be bestowed upon those in need. She was an incredible lady, honest, truthful, and spoke her piece and wisdom, no matter what. She prided herself on her personal presentation and the room lit up with her presence. At any gathering, food was a focus and when people were well-fed, it was mission accomplished for Nettie! Southern style foods were her specialty and she was renowned for her cornbread. She put her Christian fellowship and physical labor into the preparation of the meals. She also had a passion for fishing, especially at Lake Moraine, and she cooked what she caught. In 1996 she became a member of the Redeemer Church and its congregation who shared the same heart for the word of God. Sick calls were a priority, a virtue of her humble and giving nature. She also studied the Bible, formally and informally. It was the rock upon which she stood and through the Word she found unshakeable faith. She was invincible. She always put thought into her words and spoke in a loving and meaningful way, and now she looks forward to a crown of righteousness, one that will never fade, one given by our King. She lived a life in service of God and fought the good fight. She finished the race with faith and grace. Nettie is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Edward and Lisa Johnson, and Francis (who she considered a son) and Joy Lacomb. Although deeply saddened by the loss of her daughter, Elaine Johnson on April 24, 2017, Nettie had faith that she would see her again. She leaves to remember her legacy, her grandchildren, especially her adored Anthony Johnson, Brenden Johnson, Bethany Johnson, Derrick Johnson, and Demetrius Johnson; Brittney Jewell, and Brandy Johnson; her brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Cleo Herron; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; brother-in-law, Rayfield Richardson; and friends, Reverend Emmett and Gretchen Eady, Ethel Jackson, Reverend Mary Webster, and Pastor Charles March. She was predeceased by her siblings, Albert, Kate, Harvey Lee, Early, and Otis. The family extends sincere appreciation to Nettie’s oncologist, Dr. Najam Din who had her best interest at heart; the entire staff of the Slocum Dickson Medical Group, the Pines at Utica, MVHS at St. Luke’s Healthcare/Allen Calder Wing, and Faxton Hospital for their compassionate care; and the congregation of the Redeemer Church as well as the outstanding pastoral ministry for their prayers and solace. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00-6:00 at the Redeemer Church, 931 Herkimer Road, Utica, NY 13502. Nettie’s Home Going and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the Church. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Nettie L. (Herron) Richardson

May 4, 1937 - August 28, 2019