Mary Kay Richards

Mary Katherine Richards, 77, of Rockford, IL, passed away on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, after a lengthy illness. She was born in Sterling, IL, on February 18, 1947, to Ruth and Irvin Steinhagen.

Mary was married to James “Bob” Richards on January 18, 1969, in Sterling. Throughout her life, she enjoyed learning new recipes, trying out new restaurants, watching TV shows and conversing on them with loved ones, and reading books. She particularly treasured spending time with her children and grandchildren and gathering for Sunday dinners and game nights. She was also an avid Cubs fan and was thrilled to see them win the World Series in 2016.

Her family will dearly miss her warmth and love, goofy jokes, savory cooking, and irresistible Christmas cookies.

She is survived by her son, James “Jim” Richards; her daughters, Karen (Pete) Richards and Amy Davies; siblings, Richard “Dick” (Sharon) and Larry (Carol) Steinhagen; grandchildren, Justin (Jacob) Davies and Joseph “Joey” (Faith) Fanneli; and great-grandpets, Elly, Coco, and Ginger. She is preceded in death by her husband, James “Bob” Richards; father, Irvin Steinhagen; mother, Ruth Steinhagen; sister, Anne (Don) Peters; beloved dog, Bo; grand- and great-grandpets, Sammy, Mikey, and Brie.

The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center and Ascension Living Saint Anne Place for their diligent and compassionate care.

Per Mary’s wishes, there will be no service; she requested her family and friends spend time with their loved ones. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local PFLAG or Meals on Wheels organizations.