Ora Nell Richardson

Ora Nell Richardson took her "First Breath" to O.B. and Mammie Marshall in Houston, Texas on August 25, 1937. She was the eldest of two children; her brother, O.B. Marshall, Jr. preceded her in death. Ora Nell was a faithful member of Jones Chapel AME Church for over 75 years. She accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age. She attended Eighth Avenue Elementary School, Francis Harper Jr. High School and graduated Valedictorian from Phillis Wheatley High School in 1955. She received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Hampton University and a Master of Education from Prairie View A&M University. She spent a short term in the Air Force where she met and married Timothy Lockett, who preceded her in death. To that union her one and only bundle of joy, Netania Danielle Lockett, was born. She later met and married Boley Richardson, who also preceded her in death. Ora Nell left a lasting impression on every life she touched. She was a dedicated educator at many schools in the Houston Independent School District (HISD). For 35 years, she spent her tenure as a Home Economics teacher which brought her so much joy. "Ms. Lockett" as many of her students called her, was not only a devoted teacher but a motherly mentor and friend who brought so much delight into their lives. Ora Nell received numerous awards and recognitions for her many years of service. She also dedicated her time and commitment to her community where she became a block director of her neighborhood, Shepherd Park Terrace. Ora Nell Richardson leaves her legacy to her daughter, Netania Lockett Buckner (Walter Keith); granddaughters, Taylor and Raven; a special cousin, Aliene Boone; great-nieces, Donitra and Donielle; and many beloved family and friends.