Longtime Lassen County resident, Tina Louise Richards (61) passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, surrounded by her sisters in Christ and dear friends – Daisy, Alex, and Brenda at PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Reno.
Tina was the first of three daughters born to Duane and Velma Richards. A proud graduate of Westwood High School, she grew into a woman whose compassion guided every step of her life’s path. She later found her purpose at Lassen Behavioral Health, where she served as a case manager. Her dedication, empathy, and ability to meet people exactly where they were made her an anchor of support for individuals seeking stability, encouragement, and hope.
Tina possessed a rare ability to see people clearly and without judgment. Her work became a legacy—one that lives on in the individuals and families who grew stronger because she cared.
Tina also served the Susanville Indian Rancheria, where she contributed as a member of the Election Committee, the Indian Child Welfare Committee, and the Tribal Council. Additionally, she was once a foster parent for Native children and a CASA worker for Lassen County. Her dedication in these roles reflected her deep love for her community and her commitment to supporting and protecting its families.
Known for her quirky sense of humor, Tina “knew no strangers.” She had a gift for turning the ordinary into something bluntly humorous, often delivering unexpectedly funny comments that could brighten even the hardest day.
Outside of work, Tina loved the simple joys that strengthened her spirit. She enjoyed fishing, kayaking, and going to the movies, but most of all she loved spending time with people—her family, her friends, and especially her precious granddaughter Beverly Louise, lovingly called LuLu, whom she adored and spoiled every chance she had.
Tina leaves behind her beloved son Jason Richards, granddaughter LuLu, her sisters Tessa Lancaster and Gina Roper, her fiancée Brenda Lopez, and many nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, and great‑nephews, cousins, and many, many friends. She is preceded in death by her partner Eva Diaz, her parents, grandparents, two brothers, and several aunts and uncles.
She was loved widely, and her absence will be felt by many. Yet her spirit lives on in the laughter she shared, the compassion she sowed, and the healing she brought to so many lives.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Reaching Nations for Christ Church, 805 Wada, Susanville, California. All are welcome to join in honoring Tina’s beautiful life.
