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Source: History Morris County New Jersey, Volume II, Lewis Publishing Co., 1914 Edward R. RICHARDS, who conducts the only undertaking establishment in Pompton or in that section of Morris county, is a representative of one of the old families of that portion of the State, its members in the various generations proving themselves worthy citizens, true to the duties that devolved upon them, and on all occasions showing themselves worthy of the high confidence reposed in them by their fellow citizens. Gordon RICHARDS, father of Edward R. RICHARDS, was a native of Morris county, New Jersey, was also engaged in the undertaking business, which was established by members of the family more than eighty years ago, and which he conducted until his death at the age of seventy-two years. His wife, Sarah (BROWN) RICHARDS, who died in 1900, bore him eleven children, three of whom are now deceased. Edward R. RICHARDS was born in Pompton, Morris county, New Jersey, August 1, 1862. After completing a common school education, he learned the trade of undertaker under the competent instruction of his father, continuing with him until the death of the latter, when he conducted the business, in conjunction with his mother, until her death, then was in partnership with his brother, John RICHARDS, who died in August, 1912, and since then has been assisted in his business by his son, George E. RICHARDS, whose services are of great value. He is the owner of the hearses, coaches and auto service which he uses in the conduct of his business, and has from seventy-five to 100 caskets in stock from which to choose from. His establishment is thoroughly equipped with every modern device known to the art, his present building being erected by him in 1913, this being commodious and up-to-date in every respect. Mr. RICHARDS served in the capacity of fire chief for five years, is a Republican in politics, and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Improved Order of Red Men. Mr. RICHARDS married, February 28, 1875, Josie A. SLOAN, born January 13, 1859, in Bloomingdale, New Jersey, daughter of Richard and Eliza (REEVE) SLOAN, of Bloomingdale. Children: 1. William T., resides at Big Fall, Minnesota, employed on the railroad. 2. Maude, married Frank CORNELIUS, of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. 3. Blanche, married Milton HILLER, of Bloomingdale, New Jersey. 4. George E., now assisting his father as aforementioned; member of Silentia Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Junior Order of United American Mechanics, of Pompton Lakes, deacon of Reformed church; married Maggie WHITE of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. 5. Belle, married Arthur SOUSA, resides in California. Mr. RICHARDS possesses in marked degree the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens, and he wields a wide influence for good in the community. Transcribed by John Cresseveur |
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