Lula Mae

Harris-Richardson

Lula Mae Clinkscale-Harris-Richardson, affectionately known as "Mother," peacefully entered into glory at the age of 96 on the morning of November 6th, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her beloved family. Lula was born to the union of Boss Clinkscale and Ludie Johnson-Clinkscale in Hazard, Kentucky, on February 12th, 1928.

Lula was an excellent student and proudly graduated as the Valedictorian of her high school class. She later met and married James W. Harris, Sr., and together they moved to Toledo, Ohio, where they were blessed with eight wonderful children.

Lula accepted Christ at an early age and was a devoted member of Saint Marks Baptist Church for many years before joining Union Grove Baptist Church, where she faithfully served under the leadership of Pastor Jesse Spears for over forty years. Attending church was one of her greatest joys, and she treasured the fellowship with her church family.

Throughout her life, Lula was a dedicated and hard-working woman. She owned a group home, served as a foster provider through Children's Services, and worked as a licensed beautician, even building her own private salon. She also worked as a nurse at Saint Vincent's Hospital before retiring as a supervisor in the housekeeping department at MCO.

Later in life, Lula remarried Robert Richardson, and the two shared many happy years together until his passing in 1987. Lula was a loving mother, an amazing cook, financially savvy, and especially proud of her family. She was an active member of the Eastern Stars and enjoyed shopping, getting dressed up, and going out to spend time with her loved ones.

Lula was preceded in death by her parents, Boss and Ludie Clinkscale; two brothers, Nathaniel and Jesse Clinkscale; four sisters, Mabel Staples, Pearlena Holston, Mabel Bruce, and Catherine Wilson; her son, James W. Harris, Jr.; her husband, Robert Richardson; and her companion, Mr. Lee Atkins.

She leaves behind a legacy filled with cherished memories and the love of many. Lula is survived by her seven children: Boss Harris, Ernest Harris, Stephen Harris, Darell Harris, Lois Harris, Jacqueline Harris, and Lorene Mixon; 33 grandchildren; 57 great-grandchildren; and 25 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving sisters: Leola Holston, Lucretia Davis, and Mary Wilson. A large host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Lula's love, wisdom, and strength will forever be missed, but her memory will continue to live on through her family, who are blessed to have known such an extraordinary woman.