Jane D'Antoni Richards

Born on June 27, 1937, in New Orleans, Jane carried her love of that city with her throughout her life, even after later making her home in Asheville. She was a graduate of Ursuline Academy and attended Louisiana State University, but her life’s true work was caring for the people she loved.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert M. Richards, with whom she shared her life and family.

Jane is survived by her two children, Robert M. “Mac” Richards Jr. of New Orleans and Mary E. “Betsy” Richards Wisenbaker (Josh) of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and by her three grandchildren, Sophie, Emily, and Owen Wisenbaker, who were the light of her life.

Jane was known for her quick wit, ready laughter, and undying devotion to her family. She showed her love most often through food, filling her kitchen with the flavors of New Orleans and Italy and welcoming friends—old and new—to her table. She collected cookbooks with enthusiasm, and her sewing room was another of her happy places, always crowded with machines, fabric, and projects in progress. Music was a constant companion, from New Orleans jazz and Louis Armstrong to her lifelong favorite, Elvis. On fall weekends, she could often be found cheering on the Saints and the LSU Tigers.

Above all else, Jane treasured being a wife, mother, and grandmother. She gave generously of her time, her humor, and her care, and her presence made life warmer and more joyful for those around her. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved her.

The services will be on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home and Cemeteries, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70124. The visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral mass at 1:00 p.m. The interment will follow within Metairie Cemetery.