Mary Elizabeth Wells

Born on December 8, 1936, in Ravenna, Kentucky, Mary was the daughter of Harry and Ethel (Hunt) Richardson. Raised as one of ten children in the close-knit Richardson family, she grew up surrounded by love, faith, and the enduring bonds that would shape the rest of her life.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter Wells; her cherished daughter, Julie Kay DeStefano; her parents; her brothers, James Edward “Ed,” Ronnie, Harry, and Robert “Bob” Richardson; and her sisters, Norma Lutes, Angela Arnold, and Elsie “Midge” Neal.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Richard Knecht and David (Kathi) Knecht; her son-in-law, Mike DeStefano; her grandchildren, Brandon (Amy) Knecht and Jessica (Luke) Sideras; her treasured great-grandchildren, Harper, Emily, and Ashlynn; her brother, Ransom Richardson; her sister, Jane (Charles) Blevins; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Mary devoted her life to her family as a homemaker, creating a home filled with warmth, comfort, and unconditional love. Her faith was an important part of her life. She found great joy in singing gospel music alongside her sisters, Midge and Angel.

Nothing brought Mary greater happiness than being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether celebrating holidays, sharing a meal, or simply spending time together, she treasured every moment with her family. Her gentle spirit and kind heart left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, the values she instilled and the love she gave so freely will continue to live on through the generations that follow.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mary’s life during a visitation on Sunday, July 26, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Tobias Funeral Home, 648 Watervliet Ave, Dayton, OH 45420.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, whose compassionate care and support brought comfort to Mary and her loved ones during her final days.

Donation link: https://www.ohioshospice.org/give/#donatetoday