Karla Ann Richardson, 65, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on October 16, 2026. Born May 23, 1961, Karla was the daughter of Clarence and Eleanor. Karla’s life was marked by steady devotion to the people, routines, and simple joys that brought her comfort and meaning, and by a deep appreciation for community and family.
Karla graduated from the School Developmental Learning Center and later worked at Johnson County Developmental Support in the workshop, where she was valued by co-workers and supported by caregivers who shared in her day-to-day life. In her younger years, she was active with Special Olympics swimming and bowling and was a proud member of the Olathe Trailblazers—places where her determination and spirit found a natural home.
A faithful member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Karla found strength in belonging and in the familiar rhythms of church life. She also delighted in the small pleasures that made her days brighter—Diet Coke, Starbucks, working her number books with her blue pens, and watching *The Golden Girls*. She enjoyed spending holidays with her family, and her affection for those around her was constant and sincere.
Karla’s love for animals was a lasting part of her life, remembered through her dog, Mickey, and her horse, Valentine, in her adolescent years. One of her greatest joys was celebrating the arrival of her nieces’ and nephews’ babies; she especially loved holding them and cuddling them when they were young, treasuring those moments of closeness and new life within the family.
Visitation will be held at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 15315 W 151st St, Olathe, KS 66062, on October 26, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The Funeral Service will follow at Aldersgate United Methodist Church on October 26, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. A Committal Service will take place at Newcomer’s Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, 13901 S Black Bob Rd, Olathe, KS 66062, on October 26, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm.
Survivors include her sisters Dixie Gilliland, married to Ronald Gilliland, and Nancy Smith, married to Larry Smith; Uncle Charles Drews married to Betty; and many nieces and nephews and cousins
