Thomasine Richardson

Thomasine Richardson was born on May 20, 1949 at Mobile General Hospital in Mobile, Alabama. She was the ninth child born to Clara Mae and Tyree Moppins, Sr. Thomasine accepted Christ in her life—at a young age she was a member at Stewart Memorial AME Church in Alabama. She attended Dunbar Junior High School and Central High School for two years then later transferred to Cedar Grove Academy where she earned her High School Diploma in 1967.

Right after her high school graduation she relocated to the Bronx, New York in 1967. Shortly after moving to New York City, Thomasine met and married Herman Lee Richardson on August 24, 1969 and created their blended family with their children Deana and Eric Richardson, Sr. From Thomasine and Herman’s union they had five children.  In addition, Thomasine adopted her grandson Octavious Phillips and also raised his siblings Oliver and Olivia Phillips. As most of you may already know Thomasine and Herman raised several generations of children who they love dearly. Although Thomasine and Herman were divorced in 2009 after 40 years of marriage, they were determined to remain close friends and continued to love and care for one another as family.

Later in life, Thomasine decided to enroll at Queensborough Community College in 2003. She was extremely excited and proud about her decision to return to school. During that time, she received an award for her outstanding achievement in her English class. Thomasine’s achievements occurred while raising her family and being employed at New York City’s Department of Education. In June of 2011, she retired from the New York City Department of Education after approximately 25 years of service. Simultaneously she made the difficult decision to relocate to Charlotte, North Carolina.

Thomasine, also known as “Tommie” or “Mama Thoma” was a devoted mother and grandmother like no other. She would do anything for her children and grandchildren. She was a caring sister, aunt and friend. She enjoyed her time with her family during game night and her infamous parties and barbecues. She loved to dance, travel on cruises and shop. Thomasine has touched the lives of all that knew her.  Thomasine leaves to cherish her memory her lifelong partner and friend Herman; her loving children, Janell, Cassandra, Felicia, Nicole, Carey (Michelle), Octavious, Eric (Janice) and Deana; her sister Deloris Shaw (Jerry); twenty-five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of other beloved family members and friends.