Alma Jewel Richards-known to those who loved her as Mom, Jewell, Aunt Judy, and most affectionately, Jj-passed away on August 17, 2026, in Mobile, Alabama, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 84 years old.
Born on June 25, 1942, in Fairford, Alabama, Jewell lived an extraordinary life filled with strength, service, adventure, and fierce love for her family.
Jewell began her career as a nurse after joining the United States Army and went on to spend most of her professional life working in government service as a nurse. Her adventurous spirit took her around the world. She lived for a time in Saudi Arabia, traveled extensively throughout the United States, and visited countless countries, including Egypt.
To know Jewell was to know a force to be reckoned with. She was strong, independent, feisty, and never afraid to tell you exactly what was on her mind. More than anything, she loved her family fiercely and was the glue that held generations together.
Jewell also had a deep and personal love for God. She spent countless hours reading her Bible and nurturing her faith. She never pushed her beliefs on those around her; instead, her faith was something she carried quietly and steadfastly throughout her life. Her family finds peace in knowing that she is now with her Lord and Savior, fully healed and at peace.
Jewell was the loving mother of Harold Battiste, Clint Battiste, Kevin Battiste, and Jacquelyn Hobbs (Allen). She leaves behind eight grandchildren-Alexandrea Miller, Sydney Sasser, Chelsea Anderson, Taylor Battiste, Avery Battiste, Corbin Battiste, Caleb Battiste, and Deryk Battiste-and fourteen great-grandchildren.
One of nine sisters, Jewell was preceded in death by her parents, Chandler and Izona Waver, her sisters Nancy, Hazel, Paula, Mary, and Dotha, as well as her husband, Herschell Richards. She is survived by her sisters Nell Williams, Lena Weaver, and Delores Roesch.
Jewell leaves behind generations shaped by her strength, countless stories from a life well lived, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.
There will never be another soul quite like hers.
Her life was extraordinary. Her strength was unmatched. Her love was fierce. And we were all blessed to get to call her Jj.
June 25, 1942 - August 17, 2026
Funeral services for Jewell will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Saturday, August 22nd. Visitation will start at 1pm, with Services starting at 2pm. Interment will follow at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
