Carol Jo Richards

Carol Jo Richards passed away Thursday, December 2,2021 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Ottawa.

Carol Jo was born Tuesday, April 29,1941 to Oliver and Laura Richards. Welcoming her home were her brothers Thurlow ,Irl and sister Elizabeth Jepsen.
Carol Jo attended Grant School and enjoyed many adventures with the neighborhood children. She fondly stated that they were all from the “wrong side of the tracks” where the fun kids hung out. .She graduated from Streator High School in 1959 which she had completed with the persistent push from her mother. After graduation she chose to go into the workforce that she had already begun while in school. She had worked at Thatcher’s, Owens and Borg Warner. She completed 2 years of coursework at IVCC, to better her position with the company that she was with for 45 years and retired as a Supervisor.
Carol Jo always enjoyed life,spending time with wonderful friends and family was something she never missed an opportunity to do. She enjoyed the little things like a fresh cut,well manicured lawn, a ride in her truck, a beverage or two,a meal, whether it be in a restaurant for breakfast or dinner and making a home cooked meal to share with others.
Carol Jo never knew a stranger. She would welcome them in her life and embrace the moment with a “Hello there,Kiddo”.
Carol Jo was a member of the Eagles Auxiliary, Moose Lodge and past member of the Elks Lodge where she served in many chairs and volunteered her time to various events.
Carol Jo leaves behind her very dear friend Marcia Amell along with her children and grandchildren which she loved as her own. As well as her beloved dog, Rilee.
A special niece Darlene Buchanan and nephews Larry (Pat) Richards, Jim Jepsen and Gary (Camille) Jepsen.
Jody Sohm who was a son to her in many ways.
Many Nieces and Nephews with Great Nieces and Great Nephews that were touched one way or another by her.
Per Carol Jo’s wishes, cremation will be accorded without services.
As in life and even until the very end, she did it her way and on her terms even as far as writing her own obituary.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.