Ann Farrell Richens

Visiting Dayton after almost 50 years (March 2021). My son now lives here. Was trying to trace my old boss Jack Richens from the USAF Aero Propulsion Lab and came across Ann’s obituary. So sorry. It would be great to talk to Jack.

A true lady that when I introduced her to my dad in Austin,TX at a Feis, he said she reminded him of Lady Bird Johnson & I told her that at the next feis she was at in CA. I was a dancer as well as a result runner & got to know Ann & she was amazing.

love you miss you everyday cos your photo is in my wallet with your sister pat whom you are with now in heaven teaching irish dancing with that cheaky smile and soft tone of voice NEVER forgotten always in our hearts Jason Karen and Keelin Farrell love you x

I've said this before on another page, but my favorite memory of Mrs. Richens, whom I first met while running results for her at a feis was when I competed & a few times she was the judge. She was at the Austin, TX feis in which my parents had come to see me for the first time & they got to meet her. The next year I saw her again & during a break I went over to give her a copy of the photo of her with my parents & she was so sweet & we ended up giggling at the idea of a 50 yr old (me) giving her the photo of my folks. Had several rows of people behind us enjoying the subject as well. Mrs. Richens - via my dad, was a true lady & I know I will always remember what an honor it was to know her , be judged by her & to run results for her. Blessings & prayers to her family, friends & students always!!

I am so sorry to hear of Ann's passing. When I began taking dance lessons from her and Tess Donnelly at the Hibernian Club on Xenia Avenue I was a young girl. Irish dancing became my passion and that was because of Ann's enthusiasm and desire to see me do my best. I carry those wonderful memories with me daily and feel blessed to have known Ann. I am so sorry that I didn't have a chance to pay my respects to her and her family. God Bless You All,

Terry Miller

We will always love you, Ann. Thank you for your love and time with our children. They will carry your love for dance in their hearts and tiny feet for years to come. Nora

I didn't know about Ann's passing until today. My daughter took dance lessons at R/T for three years and learned to love it. May your soul rest in peace and your legacy live forever in all the young people you touched with your love.

Happy 71st Birthday to my Aunt Ann. Celebrating with God and the Angels.
So sadly missed today and forever.
Linda Harry 7 Family. xxxxxxxx

Happy birthday Aunt ann thinking of you today and always xxxxxxxxxx emma george ava & josh xxxxx

We are all still in disbelief that Ann has really passed. I will NEVER forget my desperate call to her on an early Monday morning following the Irish Festival 10 years ago. I pleaded my case that my girls MUST be a part of her amazing school despite them not participating in the summer camp. That conversation lead to more family memories than i could have ever dreamed. Being a part of the Richens/Timm family was one of the best decisions we ever made for Casey, Megan, and Brianna. Thank you, Ann, for those cherished moments and uncomparable experiences. You are certainly missed.
The Flynn Family (Westerville, Ohio)

I just found out about Ann's passing today and was so very sad. She was always so nice to me - such a classy lady. My condolences to the family and also the Timm family. She will be missed.

My condolences to the Richens and Farrell families. Not only has the world lost a wonderful person but a great teacher as well. As an Adult Dancer, I only knew Ann for seven years, but they have been wonderful years. I cannot fathom how class will be this coming fall. I will surely miss her!

Dear Jack, MaryAnn & CHris,

Please accept our deepest sympathy. We have known Ann for so long being that she started teaching my girls Irish dancing a long time ago. They were very young when they first started. You certainly have our prayers & we will always remember Ann.

The Hunt Family - Maureen, Colleen, Kathleen, Patty & Karin. Dayton, OH

Condolences to the Richens family. Maryann, I'm so sorry for your loss. Your mom was always so nice to me. I can't believe how many years have passed since I was in dance class with her. Your family will be in my prayers. Much love.

Jack. So sorry to hear of your loss. Ann was always such a fun person to be around. My condolences to all of your families and it was a true pleasure to know Ann.

Rick and Bev Abell

To Jack and the Farrell Family,

Ann was a true friend and we loved her through the many years. She was an inspiration to our girls, Meeghan and Christen, and helped them become wonderful adults. To be with Ann was always fun, good laughing fun because she had a spirit for life. We did a lot together through special times and she will always be in our memories and a real loss to our family.

Jack, thank you for being so loving and supporting of Ann. I think it helped her be the wonderful person she was.

God bless Ann and all of you.

Thomas, Madreen, Meeghan, Christen, Lisa, and Thom Karle

I will always remember Ann Richens for her vivacious personality. I'll never forget the first time I met her at the Inis Ealga studio in Ireland. She was dancing right beside me and was so excited to be dancing. Many years after that, we became colleagues when I became an adjudicator. I always had great respect for Ann. She will be missed by all.

I will have fond memories of walking to the parking garage with Ann after class (Columbus Celtic Dancers on Monday nights). I usually carried one of her bags, and was glad that neither one of us was walking alone to our cars.
Ann was so pleasant to talk with, which made for a very good way to end a Monday. I'll always cherish those moments. It was a privilege to be one of her (adult) students.

Auntie Ann. We will love and miss you always and celebrate a life well lived .Love Noeleen and family

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

By Lamaretta Simmons

I was very sad to hear that Mrs. Richens has passed away. I am a 12-year-old Irish dancer from Canada. To me, she has always been the "adorable, smiley judge." She was always the first to comfort a fallen dancer, and her kind smile always made me feel like a winner, no matter how I placed. I wish that I had known her better. She will be sadly missed, even by dancers who only knew her from across the table.

Auntie Ann

You are a lovely aunt and we are all sad at this time. When you came to visit us in England it was always a happy time with lots of laughter and family stories. I will always treasure the figurine you bought me of an Angel when I had my son after three daughters.

All our Love
God Bless

Mary, Joe
Nicloa,Kelly,Joanne and James

Our deepest sympathies to the Richens and Farrell Families. As long time friends of Ann and Jack, we were saddened to learn of Ann's passing. We will be keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

THINKING OF YOU AUNT ANN MAY YOU REST IN PIECE XXXXXXXX

Such a special lady who changed so many lives for the better! We need more people like that in the world ~ she will be missed tremendously!

Ann was my teacher for 7yrs.She was THE most amazing woman & friend.Always made me feel special & like I mattered.Going to painfully miss her,such a sweet & classy lady.

Miss Ann will be missed by our family. She brought lots of hugs and smiles to our daughter's Rosewood dance class!!! We have only had her in our lives for three years, but what a blessing to have known her!!

Dear Jack and Family,
Although Ann and I just recently met, I wanted you to know how warm and welcome she made me feel. Ann was a beautiful soul with a zest for life and a deep compassion for giving to others. I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to cross her path and be blessed with her acquaintance. I am sorry I was unable to attend the services, but know that my heart was and will continue to be with each of you... May God Bless, Stan Howard

Aunty Ann you were such an amazing person who is going to give us all those surprise visits anymore miss u more than words can say always in our hearts love you always louise john &rhys

It is hard to imagine a feis, ceilli or Dublin Irish Fest without Ann. She had high standards for everyone and you danced like crazy to meet them! She was a small but mighty dynamo!We will miss you.

Auntie Ann

I remember the first time I came to Dayton to visit you. You and Jack made myself and my friends so welcome and nothing was to much trouble.
Every time I came over I always had a great time and we still talk about it now. I will miss you not coming over to England, as when you visited all the family got together for a good night out.

God Bless
Kevin
xxxxx

Our lovely sister Ann,

We are so upset and words are so hard to find to express our loss. When you came to visit us in England it was always a happy occasion with lots of laughter and drink.

God Bless your loving sisters
Madge and Bridie
xxxxxxxx

my auntie ann was a little lady with a big heart and a big smile.we are so proud that she was our aunt.it just wont be the same without her.miss you always ann.xxxx sandra ,dean ,hannah and ebony.

To our beautiful Auntie Ann,
the kindest,loving and most generous auntie anyone could have, always smiling.We were, are and always will be so proud of you.
We love you and will miss you so much
Love Stuart, Geraldine and Evelyn xxxx

To my dear sweet Auntie Ann. Reunited with my mom, both taken too soon. The room really did light up when you were it. I will always love you and will never forget you, you were a very special lady.
Love to Uncle Jack, Chris and Mary Ann
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Sue, Adrian, Morgan and Oliver

such a sad loss, sorry i could'nt be there, u touched so many lives, will always have our memorys, tinking of u always.xxx

such a sad loss, 2day heaven has gained another beautiful angel, her spirit will live on through her dancing...

I met Ann over 20 years ago when my daughter took Irish Stepdancing Classes at St. Patrick's Chruch in Columbus. I will ALWAYS remember her warmth,empathy and kindness to me and my children at a very difficult time in our lives... I cannot imagine St. Patrick's Day at the Irish Family Reunion in Columbus without her, her warmth , her smile and her special Irish Greeting.My thoughts and prayers are with the Richen/Farrell Families and the Richens/Timm Academy of Irish Dance at this very difficult time.

Ann made one of my lifetime dreams come true. Her kindness and support opened a new world to me that feeds my soul and brightens my spirit. A greater gift I cannot imagine.

Just came from the calling hours. Between the Adjudicators and dancers, I thought I was at a feis. Such a tribute to a woman who touched so many lives. We all want to have the affect on lives like she has. She will be missed. God Bless

Ann was one in a million. The world is a far better place for her prescence in it, and all of her former students and friends carry a piece of her with them today. Such a special woman.

So saddened by the loss of a great and wonderful teacher, mentor and friend..
May the blessing of the rain be on you—
the soft sweet rain.
May it fall upon your spirit
so that all the little flowers may spring up,
and shed their sweetness on the air.
...May the blessing of the great rains be on you,
may they beat upon your spirit
and wash it fair and clean,
and leave there many a shining pool
where the blue of heaven shines,
and sometimes a star.

Our prayers are with the Richens family during this difficult time.
We will always be grateful to Ann for her inspiration and the opportunities she provided for her dancers. Our family will cherish the memories of trips all over North America and Ireland with our extended Irish Dance Family, lead by our Matriarch, Ann.

While I only knew Ann for a few years, she was a blessing and inspiration to me. It seemed clear to me that God tailored made Ann to teach Irish Dance and shine His light upon the world. Her light radiated far beyond the dance floor and my life is richer for the experiences I shared with Ann and our Tuesday Night Class. I can almost imagine it now; she's teaching the Angels Irish Dance and encouraging Jesus that he too will catch on with practice.

Our deepest sympathy to Ann's family. She was beautiful and a kind person to everyone. She will be greatly missed.
God be with all of you. Jay and Lori Seeman

Our condolences to Ann's family and fellow teachers and to the families of the Richens/Timm Academy. Ann's patience, encouragment, and her tireless dedication to her art have been an inspiration. We feel lucky to have known her and to be able to continue to learn from her through the teachers she trained.
Terri Maloney Houston
Deirdre Houston

Keeping the Richens family in my thoughts during this difficult time. The lessons learned in Ann's class will stay with me forever.

To my wonderful Auntie Ann,it is a credit to you,from your love,dedication and devotion to your family and Dance family that we are united in our sadness.You will be so missed on both sides of the Ocean.Love you always Allison,Colin,Louis,& Christina xxxxx

I remember talking to Ann a few months before my wedding during dance class. She was talking about her sister Bridie in that Irish brogue of hers. After that, I dreamed of having a daughter of my own named Bridie. A few years later my little Bridey was born. You have given so many gifts, Ann and I want to thank you for them.

You will live on through all those little dancing feet and all of our hearts. We love you.

Tracey, Bridey and Annelise Logan

With heartfelt condolences to the Richens Family and the entire Richens-Timms Academy, our thoughts and prayers are with you. In losing Ann, the Irish Dance Community has lost a truly special leader.

Barbara McNulty and the McNulty Dance Families and Teachers (Chicago)

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Ann you were such an amazing teacher. Thank you for all of the support, encouragement, and inspiration throughout the years. You have certainly made an impact in my life that will never be forgotten.

A more more committed, positive, hardworking woman it's hard to name...now we are blessed with a new Irish angel in Heaven! We are so thankful for the time we had with you,
The Plate Family,
Jeff, Kelly, Erin, Nolan, Keenan, Brendan & Aidan

To my beauitful Aunt Ann,i can not belive we will never see your lovley smileing face in Ireland again. i was so proud to have you as my aunt as i will always have great memories of all the time we shared together.you will be missed so much . love you always Aunt Ann xxxxxxxxxx

Emma George
Ava & josh
xxxxxxxx

Keeping you all in my prayers at this very sad time. God will keep Ann in his care now.

Dear Ann, thanks for the legacy you leave... our prayers for you now become prayers to you...

In no other way have I ever seen anyone generate such joy Is all I can think when Ann comes to mind.
A mentor and friend to people of all ages as well as a wonderful dancer who helped me to experience something I never imagined I could or would ever do.
Thank You Ann.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jack and his family during this time of sadness. We all will miss Ann so much.
May God be with you all. Jim and Evelyn Kelley

My deepest sympathy to Ann's family and friends. I will remember fondly the early days in St.Patrick's hall, and the twice weekly drives from Cincinnati to her house for Erin's lessons. It is a sad day for the entire Irish dance community.

Ann was very kind and encouraging. She helped me to find an immediate love for dancing. I was blessed to have known her at all. I will miss you Ann.

Though I didn't know her personally, Ann had a presence at a feis like no other; full of grace, and kindness and a smile! The Irish dance world has certainly lost a gem and will be missed deeply. May her legacy and lessons live on in her dancers. My deepest condolences to her family, and the Richens Timm Academy
- Liz Hines, TCRG

We will all miss Ann. She was wonderful friend and teacher. Ann thank you for all.

Ann Richens had such an influence on our family. We moved from California to Dayton and Irish Dance with Ann was the link that opened up a chain of events like no other. May she rest in peace.

Ann has touched so many lives through dance. She had been in my life for 24 out of my 30 years. I am so saddened by her passing, but know she is an angel in heaven and she will be watching over me. She was a role model and caring person. She did so much for my brother Joe(who also danced) and myself. We would not be where we are today without her! Ann Richens will forever be in my heart! My prayers go out to Jack and her family.
Jennifer Moriarty-Rajewski

If words could only convey my gratitude. Ann Richens was so much more than a dance teacher. I was her student in dance for only a few short years but her lessons will last throughout my lifetime. She taught me confidence, courage, dedication and most importantly to believe in my own talents. This has influenced my life in so many ways. It has guided me through many challenges and has been responsible for my most significant successes. Although I was too young to know it at the time, Ann changed who I was and she will always be part of who I am.

RIP Ann Richens> She was a major influence on our family and helped us through a very difficult time keeping us all sane. Our girls used everything she taught them and continue to after leaving dance 9 years ago. Praying for Ann's family and all the people she poured her heart into over her amazing career. What a LEGACY! You will not be forgotten.

You and my Mommy were Church buddies at St. Luke's. She enjoyed your company and hospitality. I know we were one of the other elite dance academies in the area. However, we always refrained from the competition in church and in life and u were a true class sister from Ireland

Ann's passing will leave a huge void both in the world of Irish dancing and in the world itself. She touched countless lives through her love of the culture and in the kindesses she showed to others whether or not they danced. I am sure that she is now dancing in Heaven, free from pain, and brightening the days of all heaven's inhabitants! Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult days.

We will miss you, Ann. You were a wonderful role model and inspiration for the dancers and such a loving person to everyone. May the Lord watch over your family, friends and dancers.

Our thoughts are with the Richens family. We started taking Irish Dancing lessons in the basement of the Richens house on Wagonwheel Drive and have nothing but the warmest memories of Ann.

There are no words that can measure the effect that Ann had on the dancers and the people around her. I remember her as a woman of strength, dignity and high expectations, but most of all, love and passion for the community.

It has been 20 years since I danced. As much as the rest of the Irish dance community grieves, I know her own family must grieve all the more. Thank you for sharing her with us.

Ann was a great teacher to us adults in the 1980's and 1990's. I enjoyed her energy and direction.

Fr. Jerry Rodenfels

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Richens family, and with the extended family she created through her love of Irish Dance and Irish Culture. Ann introduced many of us to Irish Dance at the Dublin Festival and forever changed our lives. What a great role model for our daughters. Ann truly enriched our community and will be deeply missed.

no one will ever know the good ann brought into me and my sister's life ann was not only a great teacher but became a friend as well she helped me through some difficult times I will never forget the joy she brought into our lives-thank you ann I will always miss you.

Ann was one of the classiest people I have ever met and also one of the kindest and most thoughtful. When I had to quit dancing with the Columbus Celtic Dancers, she found out why and lit a candle for me at St Patrick's in NYC as she was making one of her many trips to Ireland. I was overwhelmed that she would think of me when she had so many other things to think and worry about. She has made the world a better place for being here, and I'm glad my path was able to cross hers. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. May God bless you as He blessed us through Ann.

Dear Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you. Ann was a wonderfull Dance teacher as well as a wonderfull person. She taught me and my sister for 10 yrs at the St. Patricks Church in Columbus Ohio in the 1980's. She will be missed.
Kimberly Aston (Pyles) and Amy Herring (Pyles)

I danced for 10 years for Richens academy and loved it. I made some wonderful friends who are more like family. Ann was an incredible teacher, mentor and person. I know that I wouldn't be the person I am today without Ann's discipline, love and friendship. Thank you Ann for everything and I know your Irish eyes are watching us from above!
Love always,
Kelly Barista (Kantorowicz)

Our condolences go out to the Richens family and dancers. We've suggested to the Dayton Feis Committee that the Dayton Feis be re-named The Ann Richens Memorial Dayton Feis, and I hope this will be considered.

Frank, Mary and Erin Rosati

Dear Jack,Chris,Marianne and Family,

Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to all of you.

Ann touched so many lives and brought so many people together with her love of Irish Dance. Our family has made life long friends from our daughter Kelly's dance days with Ann. I know our daughter would not be the person she is today if it were not for Ann and her presence in her life. I will always remember her telling the kids to smile on stage.

To quote her "A smile is worth a thousand steps!"

May God hold her in the palm of his hand. I wish we could be with you all Saturday, but will be in spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Love,
Judy & Todd Kantorowicz

We love you Ann and we know that you are looking down on us from heaven

When I think of Irish Step Dance I think of Ann, and am missing her. I had gotten quite attached to her the past couple of years as I worked with her as an officer for Columbus Celtic Dancers! She was an inspiration to me and I'm looking forward to classes starting up again this month... but it will seem a little strange without her.

31 years ago, Ann and a few others chipped in to buy me a surprise birthday present - my first bodhran. Our Faith assures us that life doesn't end - it only changes. May Ann be adorned in the beauty of the bright King of Heaven. God Bless her soul and bless her family and loved ones during this time - and always. Thank you Ann.
Eddie Cotter, Jnr. (Black Earth, WI)

Sending the entire Richens family and dance school condolences during this sad time. We will remember her class, charm, and dedication to the Irish dance world and our region. There will be a void in the Irish dance world without you Ann..and we will miss your friendship and smile.

With Sympathy
The Clarkson School of Irish Dance,
and teachers..
Mary Clarkson, Katie Stegeman, Patty Darrah, Jenny Kelehan and Kathleen Graham Kelly xo

It all seems so final and I cannot imagine this place with out Ann in it.. She was always so vivacious and sure knew how to live life to its fullest. I will always remember her being here for Brandon and I through the years. Jack, Maryann, Chris and family. We will keep you always close to our heart's and always in our prayers, Prayers for strength and prayers for peace.. Love Mike, Barb, Brandon, Brittany, Brooke.

This is for you Ann,
An Old Irish Blessing May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand.

Love ,Barb

YOU have touched soooo many lives….. Makayla saw the dancers at the Irish Festival from Richens/Timm and she just wanted to be one of them. So, she is a Richens/Timm Dancer and she is proud that you were her teacher. Makayla now loves Irish Dance because of your enthusiasm and dedication; you not only have touched Makayla’s heart with Irish Dance but many, many others. There is a special place in heaven for teachers like you!

To my very special aunt Ann, We will miss you greatly. We have so many good memories of each & every visit you made to Ireland. For those of us who could not be with you at the end we will be forever sad. Love & miss you a loving sister to my dad Richard who is heart broken at your passing. Love Forever. Linda & Harry. x

My thoughts and prayers to the Richens family. Ann was truly an amazing and inspirational person. She was a phenomenal teacher. I will miss seeing her smiling face every Monday at class, but I know she'll live on in all the lives she touched.

The Rost family will never forget Ann's kindness during some difficult times. Some of our most wonderful memories have to do with Irish dance and all of the truly solid friendships it brought to us. We will miss her very much and will remember her always. We hope God holds her family close to His heart.
Colette Rost (Hannah) Columbus

Gosh Ann, where to start. The Irish Dance community will never be the same without you. The time and dedication you gave to everyone can never be replaced. you are and will be greatly missed. Thank you for all you have taught me throughout the years, whether it be dance or life lessons, they will stay with me forever. Thank you for all you've done for me. I love you Ann. RIP

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Richens family. She was a wonderful teacher, choreographer and person. She made me look forward to Mondays.

Kasey O'Day

Ann will be missed by everyone she inspired, both as a teacher and an adjudicator.

We are keeping the Richens family and the Richen/Timm family in our prayers and this difficult time.

May she rest in peace.

Geraldine Foy,TCRG
Foy School of Traditional Irish Dance
Chicago,IL

My condolences to Jack, Chris, MaryAnn and the rest of the family. Ann meant a lot to me. I remember when she taught dance in the basement of your home on Wagon Wheel. She taught me more than dance, she was a great example of class and dignity. Even when I moved around the country as an adult she made an effort to reach out to me on more than one occasion. I love her for that and more.

My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy to the Ritchens Family. She was a wonderful teacher and she will be missed.

Ann, may you rest in peace and God shine his light upon your face.
Your family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers.

Where do I begin? Ann was always so giving of her time. She always expected the best from her students.

This is evidenced by her dance camp, which motivates around 200 Richens/Timm students each year. For me, dance camp is a retreat from technology, the piles of things to do on my desk, and the world. Camp is where R/T dancers work for 4 hours a day on their passion. It is the highlight of my summer, and the highlight of camp was Ann's enthusiasm, spunk, and love for all of us. She was a visionary who brought Irish dance to the farmlands of the Midwest. The R/T Academy will never be the same, but it will continue on, thanks to Ann. We will never forget her.

Rest in peace, Ann. You've earned it.

Our thoughts and condolences are with Ann's family and students. She was an inspiration to all those in Irish dance and she will be missed.

My thoughts are with the Richens family in this time of loss. Ann was a great leader in the Ohio Irish-American community. She influenced my life in many ways and she will be missed.

My heartfelt sympathy to you Jack, Mary Ann and Chris. Ann was my friend and mentor for many years and I have enjoyed many years of memories of our time together. She was an inspiration to me and taught me so much, not only about dancing but how to treat people. She was confident and had such class. May Our Lord be with you and comfort you. You and all her family will be in my prayers.

Ann was a wonderful patient of ours and we always enjoyed her visits. She will be greatly missed by all of us. The team at Brilliant Smiles in Riverside

So sad and our thoughts are with her family and so many friends--the years Grayce danced where some of the happiest