Edna R. (Knowlton) Richardson

ORANGE- Edna R. (Knowlton) Richardson, 101, of Ward Road, died peacefully at home on Tuesday morning, February 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Petersham on May 4, 1923, she was the daughter of Ralph E. and Madeline (Prebble) Knowlton and grew up in Athol, graduating from Athol High School.

In 1941, Edna married Charles Richardson and they enjoyed over 70 years of marriage and raising a family until his death on August 3, 2012.

Edna had worked for Catholic Charities, Orange Shoe Shop, the Slencil Company and Riveto’s.

She enjoyed bowling, gardening, canning, and knitting, and was the happiest with her family surrounding her, especially when they all gathered to celebrate all the holidays.

Survivors include her children, Ann Hastings of Gardner, Donald Richardson and his wife Sue of Wendell, Linda Spooner of Orange and Gary Richardson and his wife Tina of Orange; 12 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren with another one coming; and 4 great, great grandchildren.

Besides her parents and husband, Edna was predeceased by her sons, James, Charlie and Herb, as well as a brother, Everett Knowlton, and sisters, Bertha (Knowlton) (Deveneau) Littlewood and Harriett (Knowlton) Richardson.

A calling hour will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025 from 10-11 a.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on February 21st in the funeral home.

Interment will follow in South Cemetery, Orange.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Beacon Hospice, 36 Williams Rd., Leominster, MA 01453.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

Guest book online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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