Pearl Richardson Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Richardson, Pearl, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on January 21, 2021. Pearl Richardson was the second child born to Thomas Henry Shaw and Jane Shaw on February 12, 1927. Pearl was second generation American since her parents emigrated from England. Pearl's mostly happy childhood (her close cousin Allen was killed in WWII) eventually morphed into a new phase when she was inextricably linked to William Jack Richardson in 1951 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Detroit, Michigan. Their life long marriage was aspirational. In the photographs of them from the 1950s through current times it is obvious from their expressions that they were enamored with each other. For the rest of their lives they were wholly devoted to each other. Shortly after their marriage there was the inevitable arrival of three children. Pearl's devotion to her husband also extended to her children. Pearl's love of gardening was enhanced when she took the Extension Service Master Gardener course. Her passion for gardening was passed on to her children. This legacy even inspired one of her grandchildren to become an accomplished landscape designer. She always had one of the best looking yards in the neighborhood. The many hostas, irises and other plants she gave away over the years thrive in our yards to this day. She encouraged her children help make pies and cookies. With those experiences she passed on an interest of developing culinary skill to them. Pearl would prepare homemade pasties to consume at the start of the many road trips the family took to places like California, Florida, Maine and all over Michigan. She and Bill hosted many family holiday meals because they loved having the family together. Pearl and Bill were founding members of a local Episcopal Church. Pearl joined the adult choir, played organ for Sunday services, and directed the junior choir. Pearl was the epitome of Christian love, the love that is described in scripture as patient, kind, not boastful, not proud or rude, not easily angered. Love that does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. This is the kind of love that always protects, hopes, trusts, and perseveres. Pearl's sense of humor was always present. She rarely complained, even during difficult times. She always put the welfare of others before her own. Even though Pearl will be greatly missed, the dedication and love she showed to everyone will continue to be an inspiration. Pearl was predeceased by her parents, brother, cousin, husband, and daughter, Nancy Hepner. Beloved mother of sons and daughters in law Allen (Paula), William (Jill); son in law Ray Hepner; grandchildren Abigail Livingston (Jacob), Mary Richardson, David Richardson, Amy Till (Pat), Scott Hepner (Brittany), Benjamin (Veronica) Foltz-Richardson and Katie Richardson; great grandchildren Tobias, Hezron and Josiah Livingston, Jack and Stella Hepner, Nolan and Olivia Till. Interment and memorial service will occur at a future date at the Great Lakes National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan or a charity of your choice.

Pearl Richardson

February 12, 1927 - January 21, 2021