Ethel Mae (Kern) Richards age 87 of North Canton, Ohio passed away on Monday April 4, 2016. She was born on January 10, 1929 in Pittsburgh, PA, daughter of Eleanor and Paul D. Kern. She graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in Pittsburgh, PA, where she met her husband of 65 years, Robert E. "Bob" Richards. Ethel Mae and Bob were married in the Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, PA on April 14, 1951. Ethel Mae earned her B.S.N. from the University of Pittsburgh, a M.S. from Akron University, and a Ph.D. from Kent State University. She held both clinical and administrative positions at Aultman Hospital, taught in the Aultman School of Nursing, and was Stark State College's Chairperson (Dean) of Allied Health, and later Director of their Continuing Education Program. Ethel Mae also served as President of the Ohio District Nurses Association. She retired from Stark State College in 1994 and then served as an adjunct professor in graduate education at Malone University. Ethel Mae was an active member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Canton since 1954. In addition to teaching and serving as a Skipper of Mariners, she served on a number of committees within the church and Presbytery. She was an ordained elder and was elected the first female Clerk of Session at Christ Presbyterian Church. After retirement Ethel Mae served as President of the Women's Association at The Chapel on Siesta Key, FL. Family and friends often observed that "Where ever Ethel Mae's mind goes her energy flows!" No one ever left her dinner table less-than- full! She was a superb cook, an encouraging mother, and truly passionate about nursing; from education, to clinical practice, to leadership, and administration. Ethel Mae's passion for education and nursing excellence radiated throughout her life. She leaves a marvelous legacy of integrity, academic leadership, nursing excellence, and faithful service to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Ethel Mae is survived by her husband, Robert E. "Bob" and their three children, Debbie (Greg) Theirl, Paul E. (Jan, preceded in death) Richards, and R. Glenn (Tina) Richards. Grandchildren are Erik and Sarah Yannone and Garrett T. Richards; step-grandchildren, Jordan Borrowski, Beth (Jon) Creed, Dan Theirl (fiancée' Martha), Alicia and Michael Richards; and great-step-grandchild,Raegan Creed. Funeral service will be 12 Noon Friday April 8, 2016 in Christ Presbyterian Church with Rev. David L. de Vries and Rev. William N. Jackson officiating. Interment will be in North Lawn Cemetery. Friends may call on Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. in the church parlor. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Camp Wakonda C/O Christ Presbyterian Church 530 Tuscarawas St., W. Canton, OH 44702. Please sign the guest book.