Carolyn Bousum Richards

Carolyn Bousum Richards, 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday due to complications from cancer.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Arthur Richards Jr., who died in 2017.

Carol was born Feb. 10, 1927, in York, Pa., to Mabel and D. Sterling Bousum.

She attended Glen-Nor High School in Glenolden, Pa., where she was a cheerleader and the school orchestra's pianist.

Following her graduation from Drexel University in 1949, she married her high school sweetheart, Arthur Richards Jr., the love of her life for 68 years.

Carol and Art moved to Grove City in 1952 and established the Richards Veterinary Hospital.

During the early years, Carol was instrumental in the growth and success of the large and small animal veterinary practice by assisting in all areas of the business. In later years, she devoted her time to their five children and many community activities.

She was very passionate about homeopathic medicine, women's rights and contributing to the poor and disadvantaged. She led by example.

Carol was a leader in the Grove City community for many years, serving as president of the following: the Grove City School District PTA, the Grove City Junior Women's Club, the Grove City Senior Women's Club, the local chapter of Zonta International and the Auxiliary of the PA Veterinary Medical Association. She was a longtime member of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), and was instrumental in establishing the Grove City Public Library.

In 1972, Carol successfully won a seat on the Grove City School Board, where she served for 12 years. She was the first woman elected to this board.

After they sold the veterinary practice in 1997, Carol and Art moved to Slippery Rock, where they were actively involved in Democratic Party activities in support of national and local candidates. They enjoyed many years spending time with new and old friends, their family's frequent visits, book clubs and many activities at Slippery Rock University.

Words cannot express how greatly she will be missed by their four daughters, Candace C. (Grant) Relic of Brunswick, Ohio, Stacy A. Richards of Lewisburg, Pa., Julie R. (Kevin) Stoehr of Hummelstown, Pa., and Margaret R. (Michael) Stoehr of Pittsburgh; and a son, Arthur Scott Richards of Lexington, Ky.

She also is survived by her 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She was an outstanding wife, mother and Nana, who shared her love and life with her own ever-expanding family, as well as with many Rotary exchange students.

RICHARDS — Visitation for Carolyn Bousum Richards, who died Sunday, March 3, 2019, will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at Smith Funeral Home, 421 New Castle St., Slippery Rock.A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.A private interment will be held at Crestview Memorial Park, Pine Township.In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Carol's memory to Grove City Community Library, 125 W. Main St., Grove City, PA 16127, or to Planned Parenthood at weareplannedparenthood.org.