Judith Ann Richesson

Judith Ann “Judy” (Herbert) Richesson, passed away on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Judy was born in Evanston, Illinois in 1935. She was married to the late Maurice Allen Richesson for 47 years, most of which were spent in Northborough, MA. She leaves her three children, Sam (wife Renata) Richesson of Worcester, MA, Carrie Richesson of Portsmouth, NH, and Rachel Richesson (husband Jerry Miller and son Todd) of Ann Arbor, MI, and her three grandchildren: Jacob, Caleb, and Abigail Miller. She is also survived by her sister, Jane Moore, in Washington State, brother Bruce Herbert, Charlevoix, MI, and seven nieces and nephews. Judy grew up in Winnetka, Illinois and graduated from New Trier High School in 1953. As a young woman, she worked various office jobs in Chicago. After marrying Maurice in 1966, she raised her three children in Massachusetts and Colorado. She was an intuitive and loving mother, always putting her children’s needs and well-being above her own. Judy had a strong creative side and was a brilliant artist. People, birds, and wildlife were typical muses for her art. Judy was particularly talented in an art style known as reverse painting - a technique that entails painting backwards on glass. Much of her work was sold in local boutiques and specialty stores. Over the years, Judy held many volunteer roles and advocated for many causes. She loved nature and wildlife of all kinds, enjoying the outdoors whenever she could. She loved New England, birds (cardinals and chickadees and owls especially), and the ocean. She sought fair treatment for animals and was an outspoken advocate. She had a special love for English bulldogs, raising 5 over her lifetime. It brought special joy to her caring for their unique needs. In addition to her kids and grandchildren, she loved jazz music, fine art, history, running, line dancing, quiet and reflective mornings, coffee all afternoon, and eating peanut butter out of the jar. Judy was a thoroughly caring person who deeply loved her family. A witty, insightful, and affectionate woman, she found pleasure in connecting with friends and seeing them thrive. She is greatly missed by her family, who take comfort in the knowing she will be united in spirit with her departed husband and family. A private burial and service will be held in Shrewsbury, MA. Memorial contributions in Judy’s name may be made to any animal rescue or humane society, the National Audubon Society, or the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. To sign Judy’s guestbook or to leave a memory you have of her please visit www.rbfhsaline.com National Audubon Society - https://www.audubon.org/ Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) - https://www.dbsalliance.org/ Massachusetts Society for the Projection of Animals (MSPCA) - https://www.mspca.org/

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Judith Ann Richesson

May 20, 1935 - August 6, 2025