Iris V. Richardson Akron, Ohio Obituary

Iris V. Richardson

<p>Iris Richardson, 86, passed away on May 22, 2023.&nbsp; She was born on August 4, 1936, in Harlan, Michigan to the late Walter Marvin and Mary (Freel) Valencourt.&nbsp; Though she was born in Michigan, grew up in Virginia with a brief stint in North Carolina, and later lived in Delaware – all of which produced an accent where she was often mistaken as a native New Englander, Iris lived most of her life in Green, Ohio. </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>Never uttering a sarcastic or intentionally mean comment, Iris will be universally remembered for her loving demeanor and genuine kindness to others. She was generous with her smile, her time, her talents, and her compassion for everyone. Iris made the world a gentler place with a sweet disposition that made every day brighter and more pleasant. </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>Although Iris enjoyed gardening (especially irises, for some strange reason), rambling to new locations on day trips, and shopping for “pretties” (collectibles, especially those with irises, as well as pewter and brass), her family was by far the most important thing to her. Iris has been reunited with her beloved Stretch, after his unexpected passing nearly 26 years ago. While he was tall and she was short (don’t forget that half inch for her height!), while she had champagne taste and he had beer money, while she stayed up late and dreaded mornings and he rose early and dozed while the evening was young, while he loved roses and she loved irises, the two of them were perfect together. </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>Iris embraced her role as a mother, and perhaps nothing brought her more joy than “her boys,” Scott (whose birth “forced” her to retire from DuPont) and Andrew (whose birth brought about Mom’s favorite saying, “I don’t have a favorite son”) until they had children of their own. Grandmom Iris proceeded to spoil her grandchildren with boundless love, support, encouragement, attention, and yes, a few gifts here and there. She took great pride in providing the nurturing her loved ones needed to flourish and navigate life. </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>The affection and graciousness she so regularly showed to others was reciprocated by her neighbors and many friends. She was blessed to have been surrounded by people from her immediate neighborhood, local community, Green Valley United Methodist Church, and DuPont, who cared for her and watched over her through the years. We are extremely grateful to each of them for the love they shared with her. </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>Besides her parents, Iris was preceded in death by her husband, E. Francis “Stretch” Richardson; brother, Marvin “Bud” Valencourt; sisters, Regena Hall, AlvinaValencourt, and Leona Valencourt.&nbsp; She is survived by her sons, Scott (Cathy) and Andrew (Diane) Richardson; grandchildren, Olivia, Kristen, Caroline, Brandon (Holly), and Taylor (Curt); great-grandchildren, Lucas and Norah; sister, Ardella Chumney; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>A graveside service will be held at 11 A.M. on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at East Liberty Cemetery, 740 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, Ohio 44319.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Iris’ name to Green Valley United Methodist Church, 620 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, Ohio 44319.&nbsp; To leave a special message for the family, visit our website at www.schermesserfh.com. </p><p>SCHERMESSER<br> (330) 899-9107<br> www.schermesserfh.com </p><p>&nbsp; </p><p>Memorial Contributions: </p><p>Green Valley United Methodist Church&nbsp;<br> 620 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road&nbsp; &nbsp;<br> Akron, Ohio 44319 </p>
August 4, 1936 - May 22, 202308/04/193605/22/2023
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D
Dane Taylor
June 7, 2023
My sincere sympathies are extended to Scott and family at this time. May your Mom's memories be a blessing.
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E
Ellen Ziga
June 7, 2023
Scott, Cathy, Kristen and Caroline,

May the happy memories and times spent together that you cherish bring you comfort in this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.
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Memorial Tree was purchased for the family of Iris V. Richardson. Send flowers

C
CFS Store
June 2, 2023
Memorial Tree

Memorial Tree was purchased for the family of Iris V. Richardson. Send flowers

R
Rev Annette Dimond
May 30, 2023
The memorial message made me feel like I was shooting in the room with Iris. Hers was a life well-lived.

She was the first to reserve a spot for the meal accompanying Green Valley UMC's 50th celebration. We had a "date" planned for this week to record a video gre...
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Schermesser Funeral Home
May 26, 2023
The staff of Schermesser Funeral Home offers our deepest condolences during this most difficult time.
G
Guest
May 26, 2023
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The staff at Schermesser Funeral Home
May 26, 2023
We plant this tree as a living memorial to Iris. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Memorial Tree

Memorial Tree was purchased for the family of Iris V. Richardson. Send flowers