Spotlight

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Burleson County’s Unique Heritage

People in all walks of life influence those around them. In this column, we will be featuring those who have made an impact in our small towns. Judy Carolyn Williams Richardson

Giving . Passionate . Devoted . Leader

This Spotlight edition is dedicated to the memory of a longtime resident of Caldwell, Texas, a fifth-generation dweller, Judy Carolyn Williams Richardson, fondly called Judy by most everyone.

Tragically, Judy passed away April 13, 2022, and family and friends are left with a big void in their lives. Judy’s involvements in the endeavors of Caldwell have been many and varied. Her absence will be palpable. Her passion for history, especially of Burleson County, led her to leadership and involvement in the BC Historical Society where she spearheaded the family history book, the preservation and maintenance of the Kraitchar House Museum, as well as the Burleson County Opera to benefit the society. And in 2011, Rick Perry appointed Judy to the Texas Historical Commission, a position where she was able to help with Caldwell becoming a “Texas Main Street City.”

The memberships Judy poured her support, leadership, and dedication into included First Baptist Church, the Order of the Eastern Star, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Also, she served on the Caldwell School Board and the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce board of directors.

Judy was also a longtime supporter of Gordy’s participation in Lion’s Club and the Texas Lions Camp, and she, herself, was the charter president of the Caldwell Evening Lions Club.

Judy’s long history in Caldwell dates back five generations. Her mother Bernice Dean Williams 4/16/15 to 2/28/11 and father Ralph Williams 8/13/12 to 3/7/73 are remembered by many in the area. Judy’s immediate family includes husband Gordon Richardson, sons Gordon Richardson II and wife Leslie, son Randall Richardson, as well as grandsons Will, Charles, Gordon III, and Harry, all of Houston.

The contributions Judy provided Caldwell and the area are commendable, and we are happy to recognize her and acknowledge her efforts that were well done.