In Loving Memory of Joan Francis Richards December 1, 1948 – October 23, 2025

Joan Francis Richards, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, at the age of 76.

Born on December 1, 1948, Joan grew up in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and graduated from Mechanic Arts High School. She built a life rooted in love, creativity, and connection—touching the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Joan was the cherished sister of Darcy Deboer, Bill Richards, Judy Domitz, Karen Valento, Mary Springborn, Sally Keuther, and Vickey Richards. Her family was her greatest joy, and she embraced every role with warmth and devotion—whether as a mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, or aunt.

Affectionately known as “Grandma Cookies,” Joan’s kitchen was the heart of her home. Her grandchildren will forever treasure the memories of baking and decorating cookies by her side, learning not just recipes but the love and patience she poured into every batch. Her crafting and cooking talents were legendary, and her generosity extended to anyone in need of a hem, a patch, or a quick fix—she was always just a phone call away.

Joan’s quick wit and warm spirit made her a natural friend to many. She had a gift for making people feel seen and heard, and her daily phone calls with her son Chris Richards and granddaughter Kelsey Richards were a testament to the deep bonds she nurtured. She delighted in hearing the voices of Avery, Emmalynn, and Jacob in the background, offering grandmotherly wisdom and soaking in the sounds of love.

Joan’s legacy is one of kindness, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in every cookie baked, every stitch sewn, and every story shared in her memory.

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held, Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Lino Lakes American Legion from 1PM to 4PM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in her honor—help a neighbor, call a loved one, or bake a batch of cookies with someone you love.

She was the heart of her family, and her love will echo through generations.