Louise Richardson

Louise Richardson, daughter of the late James Thomas and Ada Eleanor (Huie) Simpkins, was born May 4, 1922 in Shirley, Arkansas. Louise grew up on a farm in Shirley and picked cotton while growing up. She attended school in Clinton and graduated from high school. In 1942, Louise began attending Teacher’s College in Conway, Arkansas. After graduation from college, Louise taught school in Stone and Van Buren Counties in Arkansas. She taught in the one-room schoolhouses that held every grade through the eighth grade. On December 27, 1945, Louise met the love of her life, Ralph W. Richardson in Harrison, Arkansas when he returned from serving in World War II. They were married on May 31, 1946 in Mountain View, Arkansas. They shared over 42 years of marriage together and were blessed in 1957 when they adopted two sons while in Germany: Terry and Jim whom she was so proud of. Ralph preceded her in death in 1988. Because of Ralph being in the Army, Louise and the family moved several times during his duty. They lived in Sacramento, CA, Seattle, WA, El Paso, TX, Petersburg, VA, the state of Oklahoma, Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Germany and Fairbanks, AK. They originally came to the Fort Leonard Wood area in 1959 and came back in 1965. Ralph retired in 1968 and the family moved to Richland on March 5, 1968. After moving to Richland, Louise and the family began attending First Baptist Church and were faithful members since 1969. She was a member of the Eastern Star of Plato, United Women of Local Churches (Ft. Leonard Wood/Waynesville) and the Quilting Club. Louise loved children and enjoyed volunteering for the school system while her sons were attending school. She enjoyed quilting and would sell her beautiful quilts. If they did not sell, she would give them away to people in need or as gifts. She was a very generous person. She was an excellent cook and baked beautiful cakes for people. She enjoyed visiting with people, but most importantly she treasured the time spent with her family and friends, especially her two beloved sons. Louise went home to be with her Lord Thursday morning, April 30, 2009 in the Richland Care Center at the age of 86 years. Louise will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by her two sons: Terry Richardson of Richland, Missouri and Jim Richardson of Eldon, Missouri; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Louise was preceded in death by one brother: James Thomas Simpkins, Jr. and three sisters: Blanche Simpkins, Bramlet Carroll and Bretta Dixie. Funeral services were held at 11:00 p.m. Monday, May 4, 2009 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Richland with Rev. Charles Moore and Rev. Doug Jacobson officiating. Recorded music selections chosen included “Amazing Grace” and “Just One Rose Will Do”. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m. in the Springfield National Cemetery, Springfield, MO. Serving as escorts were Larry Simpkins, Larry Richardson, Gary Richardson, Jerry Simpkins, Roger Richardson, Glenn Hendrickson and Doug Boyd. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Richland. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Louise Richardson to the Paralyzed Veterans Service Organization and may be left at the funeral home.

Louise Richardson

May 4, 1922 - April 30, 2009