‘He was irreplaceable,’ Plaque dedicated to Ferman Richard at Franklin Food Pantry

FRANKLIN, Texas (KBTX) – Saturday afternoon, the Franklin Food Pantry held a dedication ceremony to honor a well-respected community member and longtime administrator: Ferman Richard.

Ferman Richard, a major contributor to the Franklin Food Pantry in Robertson County, passed in August of 2022.

Community members, family, and friends gathered at the Franklin Food Pantry today in memory of Ferman Richard.

The dedication started at 2 p.m. and lasted a little over an hour.

Multiple speakers gave a brief history about the food pantry and shared stories about Ferman’s life & character. Even Ferman’s stepson, Mezo Banks, sang in honor of him.

A memorial plaque was dedicated on the outside of the pantry in memory of him.

Plaque dedicated to Ferman Richard at Franklin Food Pantry

Shellie Lyon, who helped start the Franklin Food Pantry, said Ferman was one of the most loyal and hardest-working man she knew.

“One time it was very hot, it was July or August, and there he was- cutting grass, riding the lawnmower in front of the church and I thought ‘Ferman, can’t you get someone to do that?’ But no, that was Ferman, he was always duty bound,” she said. “He would always say, ‘Now if you need anything, you call me,’ and I knew those words, he meant it. So it was a good, good friendship, you know. You can replace any of us in our jobs, but Ferman was the kind of friend you can’t replace, he was irreplaceable.”

Ferman’s step-son spoke highly on his character.

“He was always that type of person that will give you the shirt off his back,” said Banks.

Ferman made an impact on many people and will never be forgotten.

“He wanted very much to secure the food pantry for the future. The number of people through his administration that he touched is thousands and thousands and thousands. And the pantry will be here, for a long, long time,” said Lyon.

“Ferman Richard, he will always be remembered here. He did a great job here,” said Banks.