ittee member and fundraiser for Boys and Girls Club, a member of the finance council for St Francis of Assisi, and a long-time volunteer for Variety Club of Iowa. Despite her extraordinary professional life, Carla's joy was spending time with her supportive and close-knit family and her cadre of "fierce lady friends". Whether you spent time with her in a 5 am kickboxing class, went shopping, met for coffee or cocktails, attended a business meeting, bicycled through Italy or just lounged around on a Caribbean island on vacation, Carla exhibited a focus and intensity most people cannot achieve. It was an outward expression of just how deeply she loved and cared for everyone in her life. She truly did not know the meaning of holding back. It was that same depth of love that broke her heart when her daughter passed away in 2014. In her effort to heal, find meaning, and help others, Carla co-founded "Anna's Warriors". The purpose of this foundation in honor of her daughter was to raise awareness of the heroin epidemic in Iowa, provide education about the stigma surrounding addiction, and counsel parents regarding treatment options, especially how to assess the quality of rehab facilities. Carla is survived by her mother, Carolyn Knapp Doggett, father Charles (Debbie) Spare, her sister Robin (Eric) Bunce, her brother Brian (Kendra) Padavich, her son Ryan Richards, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her daughter Anna Richards. All services will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at First Assembly of God Church, 2725 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, beginning with visitation from 10am-12pm (Noon), followed by the funeral service beginning at 12 pm (Noon). Interment will be at Resthaven Mausoleum in West Des Moines. Memorials may be directed to ANNA's WARRIORS at Powell CDC Adolescent Program. Checks may be mailed to Unity Point Health Foundation, 1415 Woodland, Suite E200, Des Moines, IA 50309. Online condolences will be welcomed at www.IlesCares.com. ARRANGEMENTS BY ILES ~ WESTOVER CHAPEL. To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Carla R. Richards, please visit our Tribute Store. To read the full obituary, please click here: http://www.ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Carla-R.-Richards/Johnston-Iowa/1762952