Mary was born on March 21, 1932, in Grande Prairie, Alberta, to Hilda and Walter Ward. As a child she moved to Summerland, BC where she grew up surrounded by and working in her parents’ orchards and gardens.
She graduated from high school in Summerland and went on to study Chemistry at UBC and Lab Technology at VGH, finding work as a Lab Technician at Trail/Tadanac Hospital. It was in Trail where she met the love of her life, Jim Richardson, on the badminton court. They were married and built a home in Tadanac in 1956. Jim’s career with Cominco brought them to the coast where they settled in Tsawwassen in 1967. Mary chose to move to Abbotsford in 2023 to be closer to family.
Mary lived a life centered on family and service. She enjoyed her family above all else and took great joy in keeping everyone connected. She hosted family gatherings, stayed in touch with loved ones, and created a home filled with comfort, laughter, and wonderful meals and desserts.
Mary had many interests and talents, and she shared them generously with others. She loved gardening, travelling, bridge, and sports. She was creative in all that she did and delighted in teaching others. She passed along her skills in baking, sewing, knitting, needlework, gardening and flower arranging, leaving behind not only memories but lessons that will continue to be cherished for generations.
Mary was predeceased by her husband Jim, her parents Hilda and Walter Ward, and her brother Bill Ward. She is survived by her children, Trish (Ryan) Huston, Marilyn (Charlie Shupe) Richardson, Barb (Dave Kukucha) Maloney, and Bruce (Melody) Richardson. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Bree (Mike), Kara (Jake), Alana (Jeff), Devin, Riley (Kelly), and Liam, as well as her great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Kaila, Goldie, Nash, Wynn, Huston, Wells, and Layne. Her family was the center of her world, and she was the root of their family tree.
Mary also gave generously of her time and energy to her community. She volunteered in many ways, including at TRIUMF Cancer Centre, coaching children in sports, serving her church, and participating in garden and quilting clubs. She was also an honorary lifetime member of the Master Gardeners at Van Dusen Gardens, a recognition that spoke to her knowledge, dedication, and lifelong love of gardening. Those who were fortunate enough to know Mary will remember her stories, her laughter, her strength, and the way she made others feel cherished.
Mary Irene Richardson will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude by her family and many friends.
A memorial service will be held at Tsawwassen United Church on Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 am. Floral or blue attire is encouraged. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Canadian Cancer Society or CNIB.
