Howard E. Richards, Jr.

LITTLE FALLS – Mr. Howard E. Richards, Jr., age 80, of the Town of Manheim, peacefully passed away at his home on January 14th, 2026.

Born in Little Falls on April 10th, 1945, Howard was the son of the late Howard E. Richards Sr. and Veronica Richards (Lynch). He attended Fort Plain Schools and proudly served as an engine man (EN2) in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. After serving his country, he worked as a maintenance machinist at Remington Arms, eventually retiring to spend his time driving buses for Brown Coach and Little Falls Fonda Bus Corp.

Known for his remarkable skills, it was often said that if Howie couldn’t fix something, it simply could not be fixed. He dedicated countless hours to helping others with his talents resulting in endless stories reflecting his willingness and enthusiasm.

In a beautiful union on December 21st, 1977, Howard married his soulmate, Gloria (Feane) Richards, in their home. Together, they created a strong family foundation while raising their five children: Scott (Valerie) Morse, Calvin (Lori) Richards, Diane (William) Schuyler, Candace (Alex) Roux, and Eric Morse. Their bond only strengthened over the years, as they were rarely apart on their journey through life.

Howard had a passion for travel, enjoying camping across the nation in their RV and proudly visiting 49 out of the 50 states. One of his favorite traditions was an annual camping vacation with his children and grandchildren, which lasted for 25 years.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Gloria; his children as listed above; his brothers Donald, Lynn (Nancy), Art, and Kevin (Lucinda) Richards; as well as 9 grandchildren: Taylor, Anthony, and Gabriel Morse; Madeline Schuyler; Alex and Carissa Roux; Brandon Holdridge; and Maria and Erica Morse. Additionally, Howard cherished his 10 great-grandchildren and his Feane brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Howard was predeceased by his brother, Gary Richards.

Adhering to his optimistic philosophy, Howie often said, “Today is better than yesterday, but tomorrow will be better yet.”

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 17th, 2026, at 10:30 AM from The Enea Family Funeral Home, located at 24 West Monroe Street in Little Falls, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Parish Church, situated at the corner of East Main and John Streets in Little Falls. His interment will occur later in Spring 2026 at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town of Herkimer, with full military honors.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours on Friday evening, January 16th, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at The Enea Family Funeral Home, Little Falls.

Howard’s obituary can be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com. 

For more information, please contact Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors at (315) 823-2424.