Teresa Anne Richardson (1 Apr 1932 - 10 Jan 2026)

In loving memory of Teresa Anne Richardson who sadly passed away on 10th January 2026.

Teresa was strong and feisty throughout her life, there is no doubt about that. Her determination, pride and stubbornness took her through life to the formidable age of 93. But ease and contentment came relatively late in life, as she accepted help from family and carers and learnt to appreciate the pleasures of life and all that she had achieved.

Teresa was born in the borough of Lewisham to Joseph Morris and Evelyn Agnes Gooch on April Fool's Day in 1932. As the eldest child of three: Teresa, Bernadette and Peter, bossiness is often required and mum complied. With a love of dancing and beautiful tailored dresses, Teresa caught the eye of Dad (John Philip Richardson known as Philip) and they became a regular couple at the local dances. Whilst Dad studied, Teresa worked hard to save a deposit for a family home. They married at Worcester Park with siblings Bernadette, Margaret and Paddy as bridesmaids. Initially living in Morden where Anne, Paul, Adrian and Clare were raised followed by Celia's arrival after the family had moved down to Southampton. The five children give testimony to the love of mum and dad with this love perpetuated through 13 gorgeous grandchildren and 8 vivacious great-grandchildren.

Family was Teresa's life and she took great delight in seeing everyone come together. She and dad enjoyed caravanning in the UK and travelled further afield to Paris, the Holy Land and Rome. Teresa cared for Dad for 3 years at home and her determination ensured she would carry a heavy shop of food and essentials back on the bus and down the steep Holly Hill. Sadly mum was widowed at the age of 69.

So 24 years after her husband's death Teresa is to be laid at rest with Philip. She has enjoyed these years reflecting on her life and appreciating all that is good. She became content and joyful in the love from those around her: her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and most recently her carers.

I think we were all called precious one, but Teresa meant it for each one of us. We were all precious to her.