Karen Marie Richardson

Karen Marie Richardson (nee Neil), Age 65, was a lifelong resident of Mt. Clemens and passed away on August 21, 2025.

Karen was born on February 25, 1960, to the late Leroy and Irene Neil.

She married John Richardson on September 25, 1981, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. For the next 44 years, they spent time raising two beautiful daughters, Sara Richardson Dobson (Christopher), and Jessie Richardson. They also enjoyed traveling with friends and family, visiting antique shops, and enjoying life.

Karen owned and operated Hanna's Bookstore in Downtown Mt. Clemens for over 10 years, becoming a fixture of downtown life.

In her later years, she became an avid gardener, creating beautiful gardens in her backyard and a butterfly garden in the alley behind her house. During that time, she also raised caterpillars. After retirement, it would not be unusual to see Karen working the soil all day long.

During Karen's 6+ year struggle with cancer, she continually thanked her doctors, nurses, and caretakers for helping her work towards her better health. She was patient and kind with everyone, especially people just starting in their careers. Her last words to her nurses were "Thank you. You did a great job". There was not a day that went by she didn't try to find gratitude in the smallest of things. Every day, she said she was so lucky to have the caretakers, friends, and family that supported her.

The support of her family and friends meant everything. Her brothers Richard Neil, James Neil (Michelle), and her sister Colleen Neil (Sandy), continuously boosted her spirits with words of encouragement. Her many friends were also vigilant in their support. She said she felt loved and cared for every day.

The family honors the memory of Karen and invites you to celebrate her life on Sunday from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Kaatz Funeral Directors, Mt. Clemens. Memorial Service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday with 10:00 a.m. visiting. Rev. Fr. John Maksym, pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church in Detroit, will officiate. Burial will be in St. Peter Cemetery, Mt. Clemens.