A house RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR the Reverend Judy M. Richardson FOR HER DEDICATED SERVICE AS presiding ELDER in the ame CHURCH AND TO extend best wishes on the occasion of her retirement.

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives has learned that after long and faithful service the Reverend Judy M. Richardson soon will step down from her position as presiding elder in the AME Church; and

Whereas, Judy M. Richardson is a highly respected figure in both the religious and professional communities, boasting a rich and diverse background marked by unwavering dedication and service. A graduate of Abbeville County Public Schools, Reverend Richardson pursued her theological studies at Erskine Theological Seminary, where she honed her spiritual calling. Her journey in ministry began in 1975 when she was licensed to preach, followed by her ordination as an itinerant deacon in 1977 and later as an itinerant elder in 1980 under the mentorship of the late Bishop Frank Madison Reid, Jr.; and

Whereas, throughout her illustrious career, Reverend Richardson has held pivotal roles in various organizations, showcasing her administrative prowess and commitment to community development. From 1972 to 1975, she served as the Title XX coordinator at the Abbeville County Council on Aging, advocating for the needs of the elderly with compassion and diligence. Her tenure at the Abbeville County Treasurer's Office from 1986 to 2011, where she served as deputy treasurer and acting treasurer, further solidified her reputation as a capable leader and financial steward; and

Whereas, in addition to her professional endeavors, she has been a beacon of spiritual guidance and pastoral care, serving congregations across South Carolina with grace and humility. Her pastoral appointments include St. John/Grace Chapel AMEC in Abbeville, Brownoh/Jacob Chapel AME in Calhoun Falls, Kings Chapel AMEC in Pendleton, St. James in Abbeville, and Mt. Carmel AME Church in Gray Court. Her contributions to the Piedmont Annual Conference are notable. She served as secretary from 1980 to 2009, vice chair of the trustee board, Piedmont Annual Conference Board of Examiners, and president of the WIM Piedmont Conference. She was also elected as a delegate to the general conference from 1992 to 2024 and presiding elder of the Greenville District (2009-present), where her insights and leadership were highly valued; and

Whereas, beyond her professional and ministerial pursuits, Judy Richardson finds immense joy and fulfillment in her family life. She is happily married to the Reverend Cornell Richardson, Jr., and the Lord has blessed the couple with four delightful daughters, Beverly, Maerine, Deidre, and Nicole, as well as three beloved grandchildren, Brookelyn, Kennedy, and Kendrick; and

Whereas, Reverend Richardson's life and work are guided by her favorite scripture, Proverbs 3:5, which encapsulates her unwavering faith and trust in divine guidance. Her tireless dedication to serving others and her steadfast commitment to her faith make her a cherished leader and role model in her community and beyond. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor the Reverend Judy M. Richardson for her dedicated service as presiding elder in the AME Church and extend best wishes on the occasion of her retirement.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Reverend Judy M. Richardson.

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