Geraldine P. Richardson

Geraldine P. Richardson "Gerry" of Millstadt, IL died peacefully on Sept. 1st, 2015 at the age of 89, surrounded by her loved ones.

Gerry was born July 5, 1926, in Smackover, Arkansas. She graduated from White Oak High School in 1943. One of the most cherished memories of her youth was playing first clarinet in the White Oak Marching Band, having received many awards and accolades.

In 1945 she met her husband to be, a young army sergeant, just returning from the WWII Pacific Campaign. After eloping in 1946, they originally moved to St. Louis, MO, later settling in Cahokia, Ill where they reared their two children, Betty (Jeannie) and Louis (Joe).

Gerry received her Associate Degree in Business in 1972 from Belleville Area College. She then worked for UFCW Local 219 for 16 years, retiring in 1987.

Favorite pastimes in her early years were bowling, crocheting, and gardening. She was an avid Cardinal Baseball fan and caring animal lover. In her later years her love of solving crossword puzzles became her favorite pastime. She was a devout member of Maplewood Park Baptist Church of Cahokia; which included joining Helping Hands (making lap quilts for those in need), Friday Lunch Ladies, and XYZ.

Gerry was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Louis R. Richardson in 2001 and her parents Roscoe E. Pearce and Thelma M. Pearce of White Oak, Texas. She is survived by her two children; Betty J. Thomas (Richard) of St. Albans, Mo. and Louis E. Richardson (Marta) of New Baden, IL. Three Grandchildren; Jill Simmons (Jeff), Michael Aubuchon, and Amanda Richardson. Three Great-Grandchildren; Maggie, Carter and Bailey Simmons.

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 am Saturday, September 5, 2015 at Lake View Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home: 229 Frank Scott Parkway E, Fairview Heights, Il 62208. Burial to follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America: www.pva.org. Memories and expressions of condolences may also be offered at www.lakeviewfuneralhm.com.