Ruth Ann (nee Stassen) Richardson, 88

Ruth Ann Richardson, 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at her home in Joliet, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Chicago Heights, on February 27, 1938, she was the daughter of Elsie (nee Stender) and Harry Stassen.

Ruth grew up in Green Garden Township on her family’s farm and graduated from Peotone High School in 1956. She married George B. Richardson on August 20, 1960. Earlier in life, she worked for the Rust Craft Greeting Card Company in Joliet, assisting with coding and billing. She was a member of Green Garden Snip and Snack 4-H Club, a former member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Monee, Messiah Lutheran Church in Joliet, and Senior Services of Will County – helping with the newsletter.

Ruth enjoyed reading Amish novels, traveling with friends and family, decorating for the seasons and holidays, crafts, attending bingo and parties at the Senior Center, and anything chocolate. She took joy in her family gatherings on Sundays, with dinner, scripture reading, and prayer.

Ruth is survived by her son, Dale Richardson; and her daughter, Diane (Charlie) Peterson. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, George B. Richardson (2025); her parents, Harry (1972) and Elsie (2006) Stassen; siblings, Leon (1943) and Bette Jean Kusunis (2000).

The family especially would like to thank her caregivers – Jewell Cabe, who took care of her like she was her own mother, a cheerleader, friend, and closest confidant, and Penny Schweigel, who she adored and was family to her. Penny’s silliness and fun spirit brightened her days with laughter and made her feel special, especially on her spa days. Also, thank you to her exceptional Lightways Hospice team – Chrissy, Jim, Justina, Brianna, and Kelly – for all their excellent care.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 7, at Fred C. Dames Funeral Home in Joliet, with private interment at Woodlawn Memorial Park II. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care in Joliet.

For additional information, call 815-741-5500 or visit her memorial tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you may share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.