Penny Kay Richardson, 79, of Kirkland, passed away on August 12, 2023. She was born on July 7, 1944, the daughter of Dorothy and Clifford Rhodes in Belvidere, IL. She graduated from Belvidere High School, class of 1962. On October 21, 1962, she married the love of her life, Wayne Richardson. Together they shared four children and 60 years in marriage. She was a deeply devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Penny was a dedicated registered nurse. She worked for over 30 years at Lundholm surgical group. Her hobbies and interests included baking, gardening, traveling, and going on long walks on paths at different parks around the area. You would often find Penny in the kitchen making her famous chocolate chip cookies, pies, apple dumplings, and especially her black raspberry jelly, which is still enjoyed by loved ones.

She treasured going to outdoor shows at Sinnissippi Park and Starlight Theatre. She was also a member of the Anderson Japanese Gardens and Klehm Arboretum. Her favorite vacations included Cancun, Italy, Ireland, Florida, and Hawaii. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren's sporting events and showing her support by cheering them on. But most of all, she relished time spent at gatherings with family and friends. She will be missed by all that she touched.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband, Wayne Richardson; their children, Teri (Patrick) Sharp, Tonjia (Michael) Oberst, Tory (Lisa) Richardson, and Tara (Jeff) Cook; grandchildren, Alli (Victor) Trampus, Ty (Fiona) Sharp, Anna Sharp, Brianna Kloster, Hannah and Haley Oberst, and Zachary, Logan and Kyra Richardson; great grandson Liam Sharp, siblings; Sandy (Dave) James, Brant (Judy) Rhodes, Bruce (Margaret) Rhodes, Bob (Nona) Rhodes and Lorna Hegge as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members whom she loved dearly.

She is welcomed into heaven by her parents, and sister, Linda Quick. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or to the family to establish a memorial in her name at a later date.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private celebration of life will be held on a later date.

The family would also like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Northern Illinois Hospice for their wonderful care.