Mary Ann Richardson

Mrs. Mary Ann Richardson, affectionately known as "Pumpkin," has left her earthly dwelling on February 7, 2024, to embark on her angelic assignment. Born on February 23, 1948, in Camden, South Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of the late Sgt. David Leonard and the late Rosa Lee Leonard.

Mary Ann's love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of her life. She exemplified a deep devotion to her family, her church, children, and community through her unwavering service and commitment to her brothers and sisters in Christ. From an early age, Mary Ann accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.

Education held great importance to Mary Ann as she began attending Kirkwood School for elementary before continuing her studies at Jackson High School in Camden. It was during these formative years that Mary Ann crossed paths with Grover Richardson in 1963. Throughout their fifty-four years of marriage, Mary Ann and Grover were regarded as an ideal couple by their classmates, known for their companionship and love.

Mary Ann's true passion lay in providing a loving and nurturing environment for children—a testament to this is witnessed by over 45 adopted children who consider "Mae Mae" and "Papa Grover" as their second parents. Her gentle nature, kind-heartedness, nurturing spirit, and teaching abilities allowed parents to entrust their children into her care without worry. Through these parent-child relationships forged under Mary Ann's guidance, lifelong connections were formed that will forever be treasured.

Mary Ann's spiritual journey began at Good Hope United Methodist Church in Rembert before finding a home at Good Hope Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in Camden. In various capacities within the church community, she served selflessly as a member of the Usher Board, United Methodist Women Member, Nurture Outreach Witness (NOW) Ministry participant, Pastor Parish Relations Committee (PPRC) member, as well as the Grand and Golden program. Mary Ann's commitment extended to sending cards for various occasions to both church members and the community, sharing her love and support. Furthermore, she actively engaged in presenting bibles to new members through the Nurture Ministry. In her leisure time, Mary Ann enjoyed reading books, solving puzzles, staying active through walking and exercise, flowers and mentoring others.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her grandson, Lorenzo Jarvis Richardson and her sister, Maria Leonard Miller.

Mary Ann is survived by her adoring husband of 54 years, Grover Richardson Sr. Together, they built a beautiful family filled with love and cherished memories. She leaves behind two loving daughters, LaDetra Richardson (Johnathan Carlos) and Dr. Chandra Richardson, both residing in Lugoff, SC; her beloved son Grover Richardson Jr. (Christie), also of Lugoff; two grandchildren who brought immeasurable joy to her life: Kaidin Richardson and Karsyn Richardson; siblings, Dorothy Leonard, Rosa Leonard, Josphine (Bob) Stuckey, Lisa (Larry) Johnson, and 1st Sgt. Rickey (Patricia) Jackson; one brother-in-law, Larry (Florie) Richardson; nieces and nephews, Lance Corporal David Burruss; Rudolph (Teresa) Burruss; Leonard Derrick (Demetris) Leonard; Ronnie Stuckey and Calvin Stuckey; JeDarius Jackson, Kendall Jackson, Derrick Leonard, Jr; Tracey (Jay) Leonard; DeNija Leonard; Sryrita Miller, Keisha Miller, Jessica Jackson, and Tracey (Jay) Leonard. Her circle of loved ones extends to a special mother figure Janie Kershaw; a host of cousins, spiritual children, and dear friends.

Though we mourn the physical absence of our beloved Mary Ann, her spirit remains eternally present in our hearts. Throughout her 75 years of life, she embodied the values of a dedicated wife, mother, sister, grandmother, godmother, aunt, cousin, neighbor, mentor, and friend. It is with gratitude that we thank God for the privilege of sharing Mary Ann Richardson's remarkable journey. The legacy she has left behind will forever inspire and impact those whose lives she touched.

The viewing for Mary Ann Richardson will be held on February 15, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Collins Funeral Home located at 714 W Dekalb St in Camden, SC. The funeral service will take place on February 16, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM until noon at Good Hope Wesley United Methodist Church situated at 406 Black River Road in Camden.