Donna Jean Richardson

Donna J. Richardson (nee Wilges) entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on January 30, 2026 in Cridersville, Ohio. Donna lived a life rooted in faith, family and community. Donna shared a devoted partnership with her husband, Victor Eugene Richardson. Together they worked side by side in the family business they purchased from Vic's father, Sherm -aptly named Sherm and Vic's - in Buckland. Their dedication to the business reflected their shared values and commitment to their community. After their time in the business, Donna continued her professional journey by serving in several Auglaize County offices until her retirement. Following retirement, Donna and Vic embraced the joys of "snow-birding" in Florida. These years were filled with sunshine and camaraderie as they enjoyed golf, shuffleboard, bocce ball, beachcombing, playing cards, and forging new friendships. These experiences brought them great happiness and enriched their later years together. A woman of deep faith, Donna was a longtime member of the First Methodist Church in Wapakoneta. She served her Lord and Savior through various church offices and was actively involved in election dinners, funeral dinners, and Ladies organizations. Her service to the church was a reflection of her steadfast devotion and generous spirit. Donna's greatest treasures were her Faith first, followed by her Family and Friends. She is survived by her loving daughters Cindy (Darrell) Jones and Sandy (Tim) Connell; grandchildren; Lori (Tim) Bryner, Kelly (Brian) Sheehan, Ryan (Kat) Jones, Jennifer (Paul) Elchinger, and Andy (Hailey) Connell; and great-grandchildren Reagan Bryner; Kayleigh, Jacob,and Mallory Elchinger; Victor and Walter Jones; Matthew and Owen Sheehan; Garrett, Grace, and Gia Connell-each of whom lovingly call her "Granny". She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 yrs, Victor Richardson; her dear sister, Lucille Bitler, who was both best friend and mentor; her cherished sister-in-law, Vera Fry; her faithful traveling companion, Emma Hamilton; and her brothers, Robert Wilges, Charles Wilges, Herman Jr. Wilges, Dean Wilges, Richard Wilges, and Paul Wilges. Donna's legacy is one of unwavering faithfulness-to God, to those she loved dearly-and a life well-lived through service and joy. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Celebration of Donna’s Life will be 12:00 p.m., Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, 1102 Lincoln Ave., (St. Rt. 501) Wapakoneta. Visitation will be 10 a.m. -12 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home. Interment will follow in the Buckland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Wapak First Church or the charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.

Donna Jean Richardson

September 25, 1932 - January 30, 2026