Mary Elizabeth Richardson

Mary Elizabeth Richardson (Helton) passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on December 29, 2025, at her home in Munford, Tennessee. She was born in Frankfurt Germany on September 22, 1960, to Zedoc and Josephine Helton.

Mary graduated from West Side High School in Memphis and proudly served in the US Army for 4 years as a communications soldier. She met her husband, Rick, when they were children growing up on the same street. However, they both moved away and didn’t fall in love until they reconnected as adults while spending time with mutual friends. They were married at Georgian Hills United Methodist Church on September 26, 1992, and from that moment on, they dedicated their lives to each other and Mary’s 2 daughters. She loved to read, swim, go on scenic drives in the country, sing and dance, but her favorite thing was spending time with her family. Some of her fondest moments were spent with her extended family in Tishomingo, Mississippi where the Heltons gathered each year to fellowship, share talents, and spend time reflecting on their legacy. It was truly Mary’s happy place.

Mary is survived by her husband, Rick Richardson, her daughters, Crissy Kiep (husband Aaron) and Amanda Weber (husband Jay), granddaughters, Lilly and Scarlett Kiep, and Elaina Weber, her grandsons, Caleb Otero and Rowan Weber, her brother, Jim Terrell, and her sisters, Kitty Garten, Barbara Pendergast, and Dianne Norman. She also leaves behind six nieces, 3 nephews, and a growing extended family, all of whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her loving parents.

Mary’s family will be hosting a celebration of life at Memphis Funeral Home on January 15, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. All friends are welcome to come by and share stories, see photos, and enjoy some of Mary’s favorite music. Even on her worst days, Mary felt the most loved when she was surround by her friends and family. Please come out, if you are able, and surround her with love one last time. Memphis Funeral Home- 5599 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38119