Phyllis Lader Richards
- Robert D. Gray
- Jul 14
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 16
7/13/25
Phyllis Lader Richards, 88, passed away on July 13, 2025. She was born in Skaneateles, NY, to Hazel and Lewis Lader, and attended the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY, where she met her beloved husband of 51 years, the late Arthur H. Richards III. Together, they raised their two daughters in Glenmont, NY, before retiring to Narragansett, RI in the 1990s.
Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Roberta (Paul) and
Robyn (Steve); her cherished grandchildren, Gabrielle (Jonah), Nicholas, William, and Courtney; her brother, Frank, and his wife, Nancy; her brother-in-law, Clayton, and his wife, Carol; several nieces and nephews, and her caring friends—especially those who brought her joy and companionship in her later years after Arthur’s passing.
A devoted member of her community, Phyllis was actively involved in numerous local groups, including her bridge, knitting, and book clubs. She also volunteered her time generously with organizations such as the Friends of the Narragansett Library, AARP Tax Aide, and the P.E.O. Sisterhood.
Phyllis will be remembered for her warmth, positivity, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.
Services will be held at Lake View Cemetery Chapel in Skaneateles on Friday, July 18th at 11 am and a memorial service will take place in Narragansett, RI at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Phyllis' name to the Friends of the Narragansett Library (FriendsOfNarragansettLibrary@gmail.com).
To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
Dear family, I considered a dear friend. I have cut her hair for about 25 years. She always had the best stories to tell., And always asked about my family in my life. My deepest condolences to everyone and her family and friends. She was very special.💕
Sending condolences to the family. I’m so sadden to hear of the loss of Phyllis. We will miss her participation in many activities at the Narragansett Community Center.
From AARP tax assistance, knitting, exercise classes, water color painting.
She always made the time to stop by my office for a friendly chat.
She was a wonderful person who I’m happy to say that I got a chance to be her friend. ❤️❤️
Dear Phyllis’s family.
I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mom was a wonderful women who was very kind, helpful and patient. I worked with Phyllis as Co-Treasurer for many years and she was always a pleasure to work with. She always said what can I do to help.
She always talked very fondly about spending time with her family including renting a house for a fun family event.
She was definitely a role model for volunteering and keeping active as you age.
Your Mom was a lovely person and we will miss her caring presence.
Mary Nadeau
Dear family of Phyllis,
I am fortunate to have known Phyllis for 13+ years as Friends of the narragansett library and many years exercising together at the senior center.
Phyllis was always kind, caring, encouraging, and sweet. Phyllis worked diligently, for years, in support of a new Narragansett library.
Phyllis brought books to the homebound for several years, and she spent time socializing with them.
She was an excellent role model of a caring, sweet, and bright lady.
Rest in peace.
You will be sorely missed.
Gloria Roman
So sorry to hear of Phyllis’ passing. I would see her at the Friends of the Library meeting and library activities as well as exercise class at the Community Center. She will be missed. My heart goes out to her family and friends.