Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
BORN
1937
DIED
2026
FUNERAL HOME
220 North Main Street
East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Janet Richards Obituary
1937 - 2026
East Longmeadow
Janet M. Richards 88, passed away on February 1, 2026. She was the wife of the late Donald G. Richards Sr. Janet was born in Springfield, MA a daughter of the late Roland and Eleanor (Cocrane) Bardelli. In addition to her parents, Janet was also pre deceased by a brother Robert Bardelli; and her companion of 30 years, David Gonyea.
Prior to her retirement, Janet was employed by the Drama Studio as Administrative Assistant.
Janet is survived by her sons , Donald G. Richards Jr., Robert Richards (Ellen) and Andrew Richards; two sisters, Catherine Lamoureux and Deborah Bardelli; six grandchildren, Emily Ashton (Caitlyn Ashton) , Erin Richards, Thomas Richards, Michael Richards, Daniel Richards, Shane Richards (Kristine); four great grandchildren, Benjamin Richards, Avery Richards, Jack Richards, Sadie Richards; along with nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.
The family is appreciative to Baystate Hospice for their compassion, commitment and care.
Family and friends may call at the Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 North Main Street, East Longmeadow on Monday (February 9th, 2026) from 10:00AM-12:00Noon; followed by a funeral home service at 12:00Noon. Burial will take place in the Spring.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Janet's memory to the Drama Studio, 41 Oakland St., Springfield, MA 01108. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home. www.forastierefuneralhome.com
Memories and Condolences
for Janet Richards
Sponsored by The Family.
7 Entries
Janet Flecha Gutierrez
February 6, 2026
My condolences to all family and friends , Your love continues to light my path, even in your absence". but what an imprint your footprints have left on our hearts.
I love you Janet I miss you sweet Angel Rip
Trish
February 4, 2026
I will forever miss you my is broken RIP my bultiful Aunt
Lisa Richards
February 4, 2026
Sorry for you loss. I have fond memories of Janet visiting with Joan and Bobbie.
Denise Carol Messina
February 3, 2026
For the years (ago 2000 - 2015?) that my children and then granddaughter participated in Drama Studio, Janet was a rock. She welcomed all. She could connect the dots. She knew a lot about each drama studio kiddo and their families and dynamics. She could anticipate snags and unravel them, always made each one of us feel special like we uniquely known and fondly regarded by her. She is fondly remembered by all the lives she touched.
How you can show support
Karen Blair (Berliner)
February 3, 2026
Janet was such an integral part of my children's lives as the drama studio go to person, and we became friends. She was lovely and kind. May she rest in peace.
Debbie Drew (Richards)
February 3, 2026
Aunt Janet I remember you and my mom talking on the phone for ever and your laugh. Also the fun Aunt. Great friend and sister in-In Law to my mom. Bless your sons and family.
Sharon Hilton
February 3, 2026
I´m am so sorry to hear about Aunt Janet. She was a wonderful aunt and I enjoyed our many lunches together with Arleen my condolences to Don, Bob and Andy. Sharon and Jim
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in Janet Richards's name
Memorial Events
for Janet Richards
Feb
9
Visitation
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation
220 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Feb
9
Service
12:00 p.m.
Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation
220 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Funeral services provided by:
Forastiere Smith Funeral Home & Cremation - East Longmeadow220 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028
People and places connected with Janet
Springfield, MA
The Republican
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Janet's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Janet Richards's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored