Fern M. (Petrie) Richardson

HOLDEN/SUTTON – Fern M. (Petrie) Richardson, 98, died peacefully on Monday, January 8, 2018 at Care One at Millbury. She was born in San Francisco, California the daughter of George and Margaret (Engles) Petrie.Her husband of 58 years, Herbert Richardson predeceased her in 1998. Her five children will lovingly remember her as a caring woman of unlimited strength and vibrant humor: Jean C. Wilde of Paxton, George S. Richardson and his wife, Susan of Florida, Carol J. Vaillancourt and her husband, Ronald of Sutton, Shelia A. Cloutier of New York, and John H. Richardson of New Hampshire. She also leaves behind her sister, Margaret Winslow of Seekonk; 13 grandchildren, Doreen, Jim, Karen, Mark, Scott, Sandy, Shawn, Charlie, John, Carolee, Cassie, Michelle, and Dan; 7 step-grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. As a young woman, Fern moved from California to Rhode Island with her family and there she met her husband, Herbert. After marrying, the couple moved several times before settling in Holden where they lived over 25 years. The couple then moved to Virginia Beach, to be with family and in warmer weather, before returning to family in Sutton. Fern devoted her life to her family and adored being a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was an avid cook and a passionate gardener. Fern enjoyed knitting, crocheting and being outdoors and she found love for all animals; caring for many pets through the years. She was a phenomenal woman.Funeral services are private and under the care of Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. To share a memory or offer an online condolence visit our "Guest Book" here on this page.