Church appreciates Richard's years at the piano

On Sunday, June 26 at 5 p.m., family and friends will pause to say thanks and wish a Happy Birthday to Peggy Broussard Richard for her many, years of service at St. Paul C.M.E Church, located at 1201 North 4th Street in Orange.

Peggy Richard, who’s birthday is on Tuesday, June 28, has been the pianist at St. Paul C.M.E. Since 1979.

“I began taking piano lesson at the age of 5 from my godmother, Mrs. Lula Shepherd,” Peggy said. “I continued under Mr. Johnny Welcome and Mr. Jon Conder.”

Peggy began playing the piano at St. Paul C.M.E at the age nine under the leadership of the Rev. J.B. Mark.

“Mrs. Bernice Mark asked me to assist her at the church,” Peggy said.

The rest is history. Peggy briefly attended Lamar University in Beaumont and lived in Houston for a short time.

Sunday’s appreciation was the brain child of Christine White, who for the past several years has wanted to do something to let Peggy know she was appreciated.

Mrs. White gathered other friends and on Sunday they will pause to let Peggy know that after 30 years, they are grateful for her sticking with her church home.

In this day and age, musicians are a rare find and many churches know if you have one that with will work with you. You must appreciate their efforts.

As any other job, there are ups and downs but “St. Paul is all I know since I was raised up in that church,” Peggy said. “I received so much encouragement from my parents, the late Clarence and Myrtis Broussard, Mrs. Bernice Mark and may other church members down through the years.

Peggy’s family, her son Justin Richard and granddaughter Jalaycia Richard, will join her for this great occasion. The community is invited to come and be a part of this celebration.