Shirley Anne Richardson

Shirley A. Richardson, 76, of Columbia, MO, (formerly of Unionville, MO), passed away at Solstice Senior Living in Columbia on Friday, January 25, 2019.

Shirley Anne Richardson was born in Kirksville, MO, on September 8, 1942, the daughter of Nova Howard and Eula Maxine (Martin) Richardson, who preceded her in death. She was raised in Putnam County, MO, and graduated from Unionville High School in 1960. She then attended the University of Missouri at Columbia, MO, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science and a Master’s in education. Shirley studied at a culinary school in Europe after graduating college. Once returning home she began a career in education teaching home economics in several school districts including in the St. Louis and Columbia area. Shirley believed in continuing education and invested a lot of time into furthering her studies. She also worked in the insurance industry and spent several years working as a social worker with the USDA and the Lenoir Woods in Columbia.

Shirley had an independent spirit and traveled abroad frequently. Her creative edge was displayed in her knitting, sewing, crocheting, and gardening projects. She was a purveyor of fashion and directed several style shows. Shirley had a special place in her heart for her pets. She was inducted into the University of Missouri endowment society for her gifts to the Jefferson Club and the University Botanical Society. Shirley was baptized at Westside Christian Church in Columbia in 1962.

Shirley is survived by a niece, Tracy (Dana) Starrett, and two nephews, Greg (Mitzi) Shipley and Grant (girlfriend Rachel Pflum) Shipley, all of Unionville, MO. She is also survived by a brother-in-law, Gary Shipley of Unionville, MO, and several great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by two sisters: Betty Maxine Richardson, who died in infancy, and Patsy Shipley.

Funeral services for Shirley Richardson will be at Playle and Collins Family Funeral Home in Unionville at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, with visitation beginning at 12:30 the same day as the service. Interment will be at the Martinstown Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested in lieu of flowers to the Martinstown Cemetery and may be entrusted with Playle and Collins Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.