With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Mary Ann Richards, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who left this world on March 7, 2026 the age of 76 at The Circle of Life, Marie and John Carr Hospice Home in Bentonville, AR.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Effie Castleman, a sister- Judy Cash, two brothers Bo and Milton Castleman, two daughters -Tammie Delong and Robin Castleman, two grandsons - Benjamin Richards and Tyler Castleman and one great grandson- Ben Richards.

Born on February 3, 1950 in Gurdon AR, Mary dedicated her life to what she cherished most — her family. As the proud and loving mother of eight children, she built a home filled with warmth, laughter, faith, and unconditional love. Her arms were always open, and her heart had room for everyone.

Raising eight children required strength, patience, resilience, and an extraordinary capacity for love — qualities she carried with grace every day. She was the steady foundation of her family, the peacemaker, the encourager, and the one who made every day brighter. Her children were her greatest accomplishment and her proudest joy.

Beyond motherhood, Mary was known for her kindness, generosity, unwavering faith and her 26 years presence in Fred's Dollar Store- we won't speak of the smacks on the head for no-no words. She found happiness in simple moments — family dinners, cheering at school events, and quiet mornings with coffee and prayer. Her wisdom guided generations, and her laughter could brighten even the darkest day.

She is lovingly survived by six children: Jeff Castleman (Kimberly) of Sun Prairie, WI; Danny Castleman (Tina) of Bella Vista, AR; Micheal Richards of Lewisville, AR; Robert Richards (Michelle) of Lewisville, AR; Andrea Schobey (Terry) of Gravette, AR; Clint Richards (Dawn) of Pea Ridge, AR; son in law Bob Delong of Lewisville, AR; two sisters Glenda Nichols and Melinda Hicks of Sarepta, LA; brother Roy Burdine of McKinney, TX; a special sister Helen Stricklen along with her cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends the whose lives she touched deeply.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort knowing her love continues to bind us together. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the memories she created, and the family she so beautifully nurtured.

A service to celebrate her life is being held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at AO Smith Funeral Home, Stamps, Arkansas. with Robby DeLong officiating, assisted by Tina Castleman. In honor of her memory, gather with loved ones and share a meal, a cup of coffee or a glass of tea— just as she always did.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Marie and John Carr Hospice Home, 1201 NE Legacy Pkwy, Bentonville, AR 72712.

She was our home, our heart, and our greatest blessing. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.