Paul Richards, 65

October 17, 2025

Paul Richards, 65, of Willow Street, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, after a courageous battle with a rare form of cancer. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of Loretta and the late Hiram Richards.

Paul was a 1978 graduate of Lampeter-Strasburg High School and went on to dedicate 39 years of service to the building materials manufacturer now known as Woodgrain, retiring earlier this year.

Even through his illness, Paul faced each day with calm and a quiet strength. He expressed his love not so much through words, but through meaningful actions, thoughtfulness and by giving his time to those he loved. Paul had a special joy for Christmas, always finding the perfect gifts for everyone, and cherished annual family vacations. Though a man of few words, he had a soft spot for his grandchildren.

Paul was a steady, calming presence in the lives of those around him. He had a wonderful sense of humor and made the occasional offbeat joke. His interests were many—he enjoyed hunting, bowling, disk golfing with his son Derek, working on jigsaw puzzles, building models, playing SEGA, watching Star Trek, and collecting Hot Wheels. A loyal sports fan, he loved cheering on the Los Angeles Rams, Penn State, and following NASCAR.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Shirl Richards; his children Derek Richards, Amanda Blaney, and Jeremy King; and his cherished grandchildren Hunter, Willow, Jayden, Declan, Leland, and Damon. He is also survived by his mother Loretta Richards; his siblings Jimmy Richards, Butch Richards, and Vickie Richardes; and his niece and nephew Trish Richards and Conner Richards.

In addition to his father, Paul was preceded in death by his beloved son Kyle and daughter-in-law Bailey King.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 2421 Willow Street Pike, at 1:00 PM, with a time of visitation prior from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers donations in Paul’s name can be made to Hospice and community care, hospiceandcommunitycare.org