Darlita Sharifa Richard, 47, passed away on February 9th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love that will continue to live in every life she touched. Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 11 am at First Progressive Baptist Church. Private Disposition under the direction of Griffin Mortuary. Visitations will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Griffin Mortuary. She was born to her parents, Veronica and Gregory Gilmore in Cleveland, OH on March 2nd, 1978, before relocating to Lubbock a few years later.

As a little girl, Darlita loved spending time with her baby sister and the dozens of cousins who filled her childhood with laughter and unforgettable memories. Growing up, she played sports and was affectionately known for her tall, lanky frame a trait that made her stand out on the court and perfectly matched her vibrant, energetic spirit.

In her early adulthood, Darlita married her first love, Terrance Richard. Their union marked the beginning of a new chapter centered on building a family and creating a life rooted in love and commitment. 

Darlita carried that same warmth and dedication into her career, where she managed several Clear Talk phone store locations over the years. To her employees, she was more than a manager she was known for being sweet, kind, and always willing to listen. She created spaces where people felt supported, valued, and encouraged, and many looked to her not just for guidance a t work, but for comfort in life.

Later, after stepping away from work due to her disability, Darlita embraced her role as a full-time mother and grandmother — a role she cherished deeply. She loved her daughters and grandsons with her whole heart, and they were truly the light of her life. Her days were filled with caring for her family, sharing laughter, offering wisdom, preparing meals, and creating the kind of love and memories that will last forever.

She was, above all, a phenomenal daughter, wife, mother, sister, and grandmother the heart of her family and the steady place everyone could come home to. Her love was constant, patient, and unconditional. She showed up for the big moments and the quiet ones, the celebrations and the hard days, always with warmth, understanding, and an open heart.

She had a rare gift for making people feel seen. Whether you knew her for years or met her only once, she had a way of welcoming you in like you belonged. She truly never met a stranger only friends she hadn't made yet. Her kindness was effortless, her laughter comforting, and her presence something people naturally gravitated toward.

Those who knew her will remember her for her gentle spirit, her strength, her humor, and the way she made ordinary moments feel special. She leaves behind countless memories - conversations that lasted too long, hugs that felt like home, and a love that will continue to guide her family every day.

She is survived by her loving husband, Terrance Richard, her parents Gregory Gilmore (Mary Gilmore) and Veronica Gilmore, her sister, Shanee Young (Sedryck Young), beloved children, Kiara Fillmore, and Jammie Richard, her cherished grandchildren, Kameron King, Alikaih King, and Khari Lee Christophe,

and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives are better because she was in them.

She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Alvin Sr. and Fannie Dunn, her paternal grandparents James and Priscilla Gilmore, and many other beloved family members who welcomed her with open arms.

Though her time here was far too short, the love she gave will outlive us all. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered as the sweetest soul, and she was ours.

Through it all, she remained #GilmoreStrong