Alan Jesse Richardson

LAUREL - On June 13, 2014, Alan Jesse Richardson left those he loved on earth to join his heavenly Father and those who have gone before him. His family and friends will miss him more than words can express, yet take great comfort in knowing he is at peace, the pain is gone and he is beginning the glorious journey with God the Father.

Alan lived his entire life on the family farm west of Laurel. He was born on July 19, 1938. He attended Laurel Schools, beginning with the Hawthorne country school and then moved to the town school in 5th grade. He graduated from LHS in 1957. He attended MSU-Bozeman and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity until the day his dad told him he could return to the farm since his uncle was retiring. Two seconds later Al was packing his bags, eager to return to the farm where he always wanted to be. He had a ewe-lamb operation and diversified his crops. Early in his farming career he worked by his father's side, then took over the operation of the entire farm upon his father's death. Al retired from farming in 2000 due to a progressive physical disability. He continued to live on the "home" place till his death.

In 1960, he married Mary Ann Allred (deceased). Together they had three boys: Gary (Susan-Brandon and Alexandra), Jeff (deceased as an infant) and Scott (Lori-Erik, Andrew and Kaitlyn). In 1984, he married Gail Tompkins Klebe and embraced her two children as if they were his: Kristina Molm (Jasen: Abigail, Andrew and Nathan) and Justin Klebe (Kristin-Logyn and Theron). The greatest joy of his life was sharing everyday living with his children and grandchildren. Each one of them loved him to the moon and back.

In addition to those mentioned above, Alan is survived by his loving brother, Dr. Lee Richardson (Irma); Nieces Rosalee Richardson Rupp (Jeff: Elizabeth and Rachael), Vicky Richardson Uribe (Ramon: Cristina and Gabriela). He is also survived by in-laws Jo-Ann and Rick Boisseau, Carol and Phil Johnson, Marge and Tom Tompkins; and numerous nieces and nephews of his wife's family.

Alan was preceded in death by those previously noted as well as by his parents, Evelyn Helen Evans Richardson and Harold Eugene Richardson (Sprat).

Alan received his 50 year pin from the Masonic Lodge in 2013. He was a member of the Scottish Rite and Shrine since 1976, Eastern Star since 1972 and the Laurel Methodist Church since his baptism shortly after his birth in 1938. He served on the Laurel School Board from 1971-1983.

In lieu of flowers, those who choose may contribute to the Laurel Methodist Church Camp scholarship for children, or The Shrine Transportation Fund.

Alan's favorite color was yellow and we invite those who wish to wear yellow when attending the celebration of his life. The service will be held at the Laurel Methodist Church at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17. Smith Funeral Chapel-Laurel was in charge of cremation.