Dr. Aleta Belcher

There are no set services for Dr. Aleta Maria Richardson Belcher, 74, of Cleburne, however, there will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. The family requests that memorial donations be made to or volunteering with Community Hospice of Texas in lieu of floral tributes.

Dr. Aleta Belcher, a cherished educator, talented musician, and devoted mother, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, in Cleburne, Texas. Born on March 19, 1951, in Lubbock, Texas, Aleta was known for her vibrant spirit and her remarkable versatility, earning her the affectionate title of “A Jill of all Trades.”

Aleta’s life was characterized by her passions and rich experiences. She had a profound love for classical piano, often filling her home with beautiful music, a testament to her artistic flair. Her love for photography allowed her to capture life’s fleeting moments, while her passion for flight led her to hold a private pilot's license, allowing her to soar to new heights both literally and figuratively. As a member of the esteemed all-women pilot group, the "99ers," Aleta contributed to empowering women in aviation.

In addition to her various talents, Aleta was a devoted gardener, nurturing a passion for creating vibrant spaces overflowing with life and beauty. Her great sense of humor and spirited personality made her a beloved figure among family and friends, embodying a lively energy that lit up every room she entered.

Aleta was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Malena Richardson, and her brother Bob Richardson

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Jim Belcher; her children, Tonya Brown and husband Rick; Gabrielle Ellaoui and husband William Smith; James Belcher and fiancé Yadhira Resendez; and Brian Brown; grandchildren, Joshua Powell and wife Arely, Brian Brown, Logan Belcher, Mehdi Ellaoui, and Nicholas Resendez; her sister Diana Eades and husband Danny, cousin Candice Vernon, and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Dr. Aleta Belcher's legacy of kindness, creativity, and courage will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.