Vashti G. Richardson

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.” -Psalm 23:1–3

On September 18, 2026, the Lord led Vashti home. She peacefully transitioned from this earthly life in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family. Affectionately known as “Vash” and “Baby Sis” by those who loved her, Vashti lived a life marked by faith, family, service, hard work, and an extraordinary capacity to care for others.

Vashti was a proud graduate of the Peabody High School Class of 1952. During her time at Peabody, she served as chaplain of her graduating class and was recognized by her classmates as having the “Prettiest Smile.” Following graduation, she continued her education at Virginia State College, now Virginia State University, where she began coursework in early childhood education.

Although her educational journey eventually took a different path, Vashti possessed a strong work ethic that remained evident throughout her life. Her employment history included Titmus Optical, Three Brothers Record Store, King’s Barbecue, and the cafeteria at Virginia State College, now Virginia State University. She also cleaned homes for others, demonstrating that she was never afraid of hard work. In 1973, Vashti began working at Virginia Abrasives, where she remained a dedicated employee for 25 years until her retirement in 1998.

Long before retirement, Vashti had already established herself as a caregiver within her family. She lovingly cared for her uncles, Nimrod and Josh; her aunt, Naomi; her mother; and her cousin, James Robinson, Sr. Following her retirement, that caregiving spirit continued as she became the primary caregiver for her eldest son after he suffered a traumatic brain injury. She remained devoted to his care until both of their health began to decline. Caring for others was not simply something Vashti did; it was an expression of the love, devotion, and selflessness with which she lived her life.

Vashti dedicated her life to the Lord at an early age and was a faithful member of Zion Baptist Church for more than 60 years. Her faith was demonstrated not only through her attendance but also through her service. Over the years, she served on several committees and ministries, including the Women’s Usher Board. She was honored by her church as Woman of the Year in 2008 and was also recognized as a Diamond. Her heart for service extended beyond the walls of the church, as she participated in Zion Baptist’s efforts to feed the homeless during the holidays each year.

Family remained at the center of Vashti’s life. She beautifully reared six children, pouring into them the same love, strength, guidance, and care that she so freely gave to others throughout her lifetime. She loved her children and grandchildren deeply, and the love and care she had given them throughout their lives came full circle during her time of sickness, when her children lovingly became her caregivers.

Vashti was an avid lover of life who genuinely enjoyed spending time with her family. She enjoyed going out to eat, listening to music, and simply being in the company of those she loved. An excellent cook, she expressed love through the meals she prepared and shared with others. She was also a true conversationalist. Whether sharing memories, offering wisdom, laughing, or simply talking about life, Vashti could carry on a conversation for hours, and those conversations became treasured moments for the people fortunate enough to share them with her.

Vashti was the epitome of love. The care she so freely gave throughout her lifetime was ultimately reflected back to her when she needed it most, as her children surrounded her with the same devotion and tenderness she had always shown them.

Vashti was preceded in death by her parents, Ulysses Graves, Sr. and Vashti Graves; her brothers, Ulysses Graves, Jr., David Graves, Everette Graves, and Herbert Graves; all of her aunts and uncles; several cousins; her ex-husband, Roger C. Richardson, Sr.; her daughter-in-law, Gloria Richardson; and her first-born son, Roger C. Richardson, Jr., nieces and nephews too numerous to name, and good friends Irene Wesson and Edna Stewart.

She leaves to cherish her beautiful memories her devoted children, Kyle Richardson, Steven Richardson, Cheryl Richardson, Bruce Richardson, Sr. (Zorana), and Timothy Richardson (Pam); her loving grandchildren, Krista Richardson, Tequishia Richardson, Qumar Richardson, and Bruce “Sean” Richardson, Jr.; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Chasiti Baker, Faith Richardson, and Braylen Baker; and dear friends, Rosa Hobbs and Bernice Griffin.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Cassandra Jones, Corrine Charles, Shantel Charles, and to the Enlight Hospice staff.

Services will be held 2:00 P.M., Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Zion Baptist Church, 225 Byrne Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. James Delano Douglas, Pastor/officiant. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

A wake will be held from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday, September 25, 2026 (which is Ms. Richardson's 93rd birthday) at the funeral establishment.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/1230599639?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci