Donna JoAnne Raper Richardson

Donna JoAnne Raper Richardson, age 73 passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on Monday, Jan 2, 2017. She was known for her love of family & friends, music, poetry and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Donna Was born May 7, 1943, to Margaret Bradberry and John Raper Sr. in Zion, IL. She grew up in Waukegan. She met Gary who was serving in the Navy at Great Lakes Naval Base and married him for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls Temple on July 20, 1961. Being a military family they had many adventures living in Virginia, Hawaii, Spain, California and Florida. After Gary’s naval retirement they lived in Vernal, UT; Granger, UT; Pocatello, ID and Downey, ID and then their children brought them to West Valley City, UT so they could be cared for with their declining health. Donna was loved by all! She had a vibrant, friendly personality and was always willing to help others. She was active LDS – joining the church as a convert at age 14 and remained steadfast serving the Lord in many callings including Relief Society President multiple times in various wards, in the Primary and Young Women’s. She also served as a missionary being a tour guide at the Brigham Young Beehive House. She enjoyed playing banjos with Gary and going to banjo conventions and cruises, as well as visiting the Oregon coast and being with family in Florida, going to Disneyworld often. We have no doubt she is already playing banjos with dad in heaven and that she’s dancing with dad in celebration of their reunion to Hello Dolly! Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Gary D. Richardson, parents, a brother and sister. She is survived by her three sisters, Sharon Maloney NC, Kathie Mashburn UT, Patricia Hedrick FL and her brother John Bud Raper FL. And her children Patti (Daryl) Hagler, West Valley City, UT, Gary (Jeanie) Richardson, Las Vegas, NV, and Julie Ferrin South Jordan, UT, 12 Grandchildren and 12 Great Grandchildren with one on the way. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 14 at 11 a.m. in the Downey LDS Chapel. Friends may visit with the family Saturday morning from 9:30-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Downey Cemetery.