James Edward “Ed” Richards, 85, passed away Dec. 16, 2012.

Mr. Richards was born Aug. 1, 1927, in Fort Meade, Fla., to James and Louise (Womack) Richards.

Ed proudly served his country as merchant marine and was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

He graduated from the University of Florida with a Master’s Degree in Agriculture.

Mr. Richards went on to work for the USDA and then was the Director for the Hillsborough County Extension Service.

Upon retirement in 1986, Ed and his wife Myra moved to Summerfield from Brandon, Fla.

He was a member of First Baptist Church of Summerfield where he served as treasurer for 13 years and also served as a deacon. He was well known in the community for hosting an annual “syrup sop” carrying on an old family tradition.

His hobbies included fishing, hunting, growing a garden, and working on his farm. He also loved animals.

He is most proud of his family who survives him, wife of 58 years, Myra; three children, son, Keith E. Richards, Summerfield, Fla., Jimmy Richards, Leesburg, Fla.; daughter, Cindy Glaze, Weeki Wachee, Fla.; three sisters, Martha Crowder, Lakeland, Fla., Becky Eagerton, Port Charlotte, Fla.; Leah Richards, Fort Meade, Fla.; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services for Mr. Richards will be Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Summerfield, Fla., with visitation one hour prior.

Interment will be in Crum Cemetery immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Family Life Center at First Baptist Church of Summerfield.

Sentiments may be left online at www.hiers-baxley.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, Belleview, Fla.