Lorene Handy Richardson

Lorene Handy Richardson, age 98 years and nearly five months, passed peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father on July 8, 2026, in Amarillo, Texas. She was born on February 17, 1928, in Little, Oklahoma.

Lorene is survived by her children: Patti Reynolds of Kerrville, Texas; Shelia and H.W. Melton of Borger, Texas; Suzie (Mary) and Roy Walters; Max Richardson of Borger, Texas; and Scott and Michelle Richardson of Borger, Texas. She was preceded in death by her son, Shane Richardson, who now rejoices with his Heavenly Father & Great Granddaughter Hope Adams.

She also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Blaine and Lugina Jernigan of Yukon, Oklahoma; Sean and Darci Jernigan of Aubrey, Texas; Jacob Cheatheam of San Antonio, Texas; Jonathan and Katie Joy of Ingram, Texas; Jeremiah and Veronica Adams of Shamrock, Texas; Micah Adams of Denver, Colorado; Skye and Hank Terry of Long Beach, Mississippi; Luke Gravenstuk of Long Beach, Mississippi; along with 19 beloved great-grandchildren who were the joy of her life.

For Lorene, owning and operating restaurants was much more than a career—it was her ministry. Through her kindness, hospitality, and unwavering faith, she introduced countless people to the love of the Lord. Her smile, warm spirit, and welcoming heart made everyone who walked through her doors feel like family.

Lorene faced hardship early in life. She lost her mother at just four years old and was lovingly raised by her brothers, Roy, Bill, and Solen. She often reflected on beginning work before she was legally old enough, living through the Great Depression and World War II, and yet always feeling that God had His hand upon her life. She believed the Lord faithfully provided for her every step of the way.

She fulfilled her lifelong dream of owning a restaurant, beginning with The Village Restaurant in Borger, Texas that would later relocate to Angel Fire, New Mexico, before opening Lorene’s Kitchen in Borger, Texas. Every establishment became known not only for their good food, but for the love, encouragement, and prayers shared around the tables.

Lorene’s home was also a place of ministry. She welcomed the youth of the Soul Patrol, where many teenagers came to know Christ and deepen their faith. She also hosted Bible studies and small groups that eventually grew into the churches known as Abundant Life and later Word of Life.

In the late 1970s, Lorene introduced her children to the beauty of the New Mexico mountains. Those mountains became a special place where family, friends, and fellow believers gathered for fellowship, rest, and spiritual renewal.

Throughout her life, Lorene employed countless people, mentored many, and touched generations with her compassion and servant’s heart. Since her passing, her family has received an outpouring of messages remembering her welcoming smile, genuine kindness, and the love she showed to everyone she met.

To so many, Lorene Richardson was more than a successful business owner—she was a faithful servant of God, a loving mother and grandmother, a mentor, and truly a Borger, Texas icon. Her legacy of faith, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Family will accept visitors from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at Minton Chatwell Funeral Directors of Borger. Celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Church in Borger. Burial will follow at Westlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Lorene's honor to the ministry of your choice.