On Thursday, September 18, 2025, Morman Joseph Richard, III departed this life and entered eternal rest. Born on December 2, 1960, in Opelousas, Louisiana, he was the cherished first child of ten born to Morman Richard II and Ruth Ann (Martel) Richard.
Affectionately known as “Tony”, he was deeply devoted to his family, who held him in the highest regard. Tony approached life with the measured confidence of a master chess player, a passion he enjoyed sharing with his nephew Noah and anyone who dared to challenge him.
Tony graduated from West Orange Stark High School in 1978, where he played baseball. He attended Mississippi State University, earning a degree in engineering, where he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He began his career alongside his father as a foreman at Livingston Shipyard in Orange, Texas, until its closure. Morman then advanced to General Manager for Taco Bell, rising to Regional Manager, and later transitioned to roles at Kroger in Orange, TX and as a Security Guard at the Port of Orange.
Throughout his career, Tony forged many lasting friendships, notably through his involvement in his fraternal organization. His dedication extended beyond his profession—he was an avid chess player whose unquestionable character and strategic thinking influenced all aspects of his life. Morman was also recognized for his warm smile, generous spirit, and positive impact within his community.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 18 years, Elma Richard; his loving parents, Morman Richard II and Ruth Ann Richard; two daughters, LaTasha Richard of Dallas, TX, and Briana Osborne of Memphis, TN; three step-children: Padrean Kelly of Pearl, MS, Demetrica Andujo (Vincent) of Jacksonville, IL, and Ramon Taylor of Pearl, MS; siblings Phillip (Shelly) Richard, Kevin Richard, and Elizabeth Richard; his godfather, Leroy Richard, numerous aunts, uncles, niece, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his siblings Michelle Ann Richard Rideau, Mark Anthony Richard, Darlene Marie Richard Orakwe, Andrew Kirk Richard; two newborns, James and Jimmy Richard, his half-sister, Andrea (Tena) Smith; godmother, Aunt Catherine Richard; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law.
Tony’s legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and enduring love for his family, friends, coworkers, and community.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
The services for Morman (Tony) Joseph Richard, III will be livestreamed for the ones who are unable to make it. The livestream can be found under his obituary on. https://www.claybarfuneralhome.com/
Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.