Clifford Ray Richey

Obituary for Clifford Ray Richey

Clifford Ray Richey, 85, of Liberty, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025. Clifford was born on June 6, 1940, in Bridgeport, Texas, to parents Clifford John Richey and Edna Georgia Marie Moss Richey.

A graduate of Chico High School, Clifford built a full and meaningful life marked by hard work, faith, and community. He made Liberty his home for the past 49 years, where he and his beloved wife, Peggy, shared 59 wonderful years of marriage before her passing. Together, they raised their family and created lasting memories.

In his younger years, Clifford enjoyed dancing, photography, and fishing, and especially loved taking his children out to fly kites. He was a devoted member of Cornerstone Church in Liberty, where his faith was a guiding light throughout his life.

Clifford was a true businessman—always seen in a suit and tie. His career began humbly as a teenager sacking groceries at a local store. Through dedication and perseverance, he worked his way up to store manager and eventually became the proud owner of Thriftee Grocery Stores in 1991, eventually opening stores in Liberty, Dayton, Mont Belvieu, and Silsbee. His work ethic and integrity left a lasting mark on both his employees and his community.

A respected civic leader, Clifford was an active member of the Liberty/Dayton Chamber of Commerce and the Lions Club. He was honored as “Man of the Year” by the Chamber and was inducted into the Dayton Hall of Fame in 2021. He also contributed his time and support to the Trinity Valley Exposition (TVE) and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR). Known for his generosity, Clifford was always willing to give back to the community that had supported him so well.

Even in his later years, Clifford took pride in maintaining a beautiful yard, which he kept as meticulously as he did his business affairs.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Edna Richey; his wife, Peggy Richey; his daughter, Melissa “Misty” Richey; and his son-in-law, Mike Glazener.

He is survived by his daughters, Laurie Glazener, Sharon Haaland and husband Steve, and Angie Hayes and husband Brady; sisters, Francis Halman and Suzie Beard and husband Levert; grandchildren, Paul Glazener and wife Katelyn, Joshua Haaland, Sara Haaland, Micah Haaland, Luke Haaland, Jonathan Hayes and wife Cassidy, and Makenzie Walker and husband Ben; great-grandchildren, Adelaide, John Michael, Giana, Elijah, Ryleigh, Everlee, and Mikaela; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation for Clifford will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Cornerstone Church in Liberty, Texas. Funeral services will take place at 1:00 p.m., on Thursday, November 6, 2025, also at Cornerstone Church, with his grandson, Pastor Paul Glazener, officiating. Interment will follow at Cooke Cemetery in Liberty.

Clifford Ray Richey will be remembered for his steadfast faith, generous heart, and dedication to his family, his work, and his community. His legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.