Charles "Ed" Edward Richards, 86 of Mechanicsville, MD died on January 25, 2009. Born on July 6, 1922 in Camp Springs, MD to the late Charles T. and Ruth E. Kendall Richards. He has resided in this area for 12 years. Previously, he resided in Dunkirk, MD for 20 years.

Ed retired as a foreman for the Washington Gas Light Company. He then went on to work at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Suitland, MD for many years as the Grounds Superintendent. For the last ten years Ed has enjoyed working at True Value Hardware in Charlotte Hall. After attending Surrattsville High School he served in the United States Coast Guard for 3 years. He then served in the United States Army during WWII in Northern Africa and Italy. Ed took great pride in his service to his country.

He enjoyed flying and logged many hours at Hyde Field Airport in Clinton, MD, he also enjoyed boating on the Patuxent River. He spent time at home building model airplanes. Ed was a great lover of all animals as many stray dogs and cats found. He found much enjoyment spending time with his grandchildren and family.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years Dorothy Ann Hugel Richards, daughter and son-in-law Linda and John Shaffer and two granddaughters; Jessica and Sara Shaffer.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 from 2pm to 8pm and on Thursday, January 29, 2009 from 10am to 11am at Hughesville Baptist Church, 8505 Leonardtown Rd., Hughesville, MD 20637, where Funeral Services will be held Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 11am with Pastor Kevin Cullins officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be: Fred Hugel, Kevin Hugel, John Shaffer, Dan Murphy, Jesse Walker and Joe Swisher.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hughesville Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements handled by Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home, P.A., Charlotte Hall, MD.